Farewell is packed with emotion for ‘remarkable’ Tendulkar

The 40-year-old brought an end to 24 years in international cricket on Saturday as India claimed a win against West Indies in his native Mumbai.

After making his debut in 1989, cricket’s all-time highest run-scorer played in 200 Test matches and scored 100 centuries in all forms of the game, landmarks which may never be bettered.

And Richardson, who faced the little master in 10 Tests and 26 one-day internationals as a player for South Africa, is certain his contribution to the game will never be forgotten.

“He was an exceptional cricketer who earned the utmost respect of his peers, team-mates, opponents and fans all over the world through his talent, performances and fierce competitiveness,” he said.

“His 664 internationals, 34,357 runs and 100 centuries over 24 years not only illustrate his determination and commitment to the game but also his mental and physical toughness which are the vital ingredients to reach the highest pedestal in any sport.”

There were emotional scenes at the Wankhede Stadium when the last wicket fell to hand India victory by an innings and 126 runs inside two-and-a-half days.

The home crowd had come hoping for a 101st century but that chance was extinguished after their hero fell for 74 on day two and it became clear that India would not need to bat again.

Their fervour was not diminished, however, at the end of the game as Tendulkar ran to his team-mates and began shaking hands before grabbing a stump to keep as a souvenir.

As he waved to the cheering crowd, stump in hand, his team-mates formed a loose guard of honour which jogged in two groups either side of him and he appeared to be on the brink of tears, wiping his eyes as he reached the boundary.

And he backed his team-mates to continue his legacy on the day they moved up to second behind South Africa in the ICC’s Test rankings.

“My life between 22 yards for 24 years, it’s hard to believe that wonderful journey is coming to an end,” he said. “You are like my family away from home, I have had some wonderful times with you. It’s going to be difficult not to be part of the dressing room sharing those special moments.

“I just feel that all of us are so so fortunate and proud to be part of the Indian cricket team.”