Just a few stray ideas as Sachin’s statue is to be unveiled on the Wankhede on Nov 2

…I’d have lengthy stopped the challenge saying, “You have God-ified me, don’t deify me.”

…I’d have instructed my legion of followers, “I am no political leader. Your love and adulation have already lifted me to a pedestal unimaginably high and given me a position in cricket, nay Indian, history.” …I’d be squirming awkwardly when the statue is unveiled and, in truth, would favor to be a number of runs, oops kms, away on the event.

…I’d ask why a number of greats earlier than me like Gavaskar, Merchant, Umrigar, Vengsarkar et al – all legends of Mumbai cricket of their time – haven’t been given an analogous altar.

…I’d be embarrassed pondering what at present’s cricketers throughout the milieu may consider this enterprise of a statue. “Really, too much. A statue, what next,” they could be asking.

…I’d have politely declined the ‘idol-isation’ saying I’m within the fifth heaven after having received the Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Padma Shri, Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna.

…I’d have mentioned that ‘Sachhiiinnn, Sachhiiinnn’ reverberating each time I entered the bottom – and generally heard even now lengthy after my retirement – is the reward I’ve cherished essentially the most. Sadly, an audio piece is remarkable on a mantlepiece.

…I’d truthfully want that the cheers as India tackle Sri Lanka are reserved for the Kohlis, Sharmas, Gills and Bumrahs in order that the main focus stays firmly on India successful the World Cup.

…I’d then inform myself, “There is so much love for me. Who am I, a mere mortal and an entertainer, to put a spoke in people’s happiness. If a statue of mine can bring joy, so be it. I don’t want to be a spoiler.”

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