Cricket Australia and the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) have honored Sachin Tendulkar on his 50th birthday by naming the stadium’s gates after him and former West Indies great Brian Lara. Sachin, who turned 50 on Monday, has a remarkable record at the venue, recording his first double century there in 1993. Tendulkar and Lara join Donald Bradman, Alan Davidson, and Arthur Morris as New South Wales (and Australia) icons to be honored in this manner at the legendary SCG.
Cricket Australia stated in a statement that the gates located between the member’s pavilion’s away dressing room and the Noble Bradman Messenger Stand will be used by visiting players to gain access to the pitch.
Tendulkar spoke about the rare honor, saying he treasured the experiences he made at the arena throughout the years. Tendulkar averaged 157 at the SCG, amassing 785 runs in five Tests throughout the years, including a famous 241 not out in January 2004.
“The Sydney Cricket Ground has been my favorite ground away from India,” Tendulkar said in the statement.
“I have had some great memories at the SCG right from my first tour of Australia in 1991-92. It is a great honor to have the gates used by all visiting cricketers to access the field of play at the SCG named after me and my good friend Brian.”
Lara shares his memories of the Sydney Cricket Ground and expresses his honor
Lara, on the other hand, spoke about his experiences of the venue, notably his 277-run inning in January 1993. He scored 384 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground in four Tests and is recognized as one of the game’s finest players.
Lara said, “I’m deeply honored to be recognized at the Sydney Cricket Ground, as I’m sure Sachin is. The ground holds many special memories for me and my family and I always enjoy visiting whenever I’m in Australia.”