Keeping Faith: Sachin Tendulkar’s Pledge to Gursharan Singh

Some promises are meant to be honored, and throughout his remarkable cricketing journey, Sachin Tendulkar was distinguished by his dedication, humility, and class.

In 1989, during an Irani Cup match for Rest of India against Delhi, a young Tendulkar was awaiting his moment to shine. His teammate, Gursharan Singh, who was the vice-captain, had suffered a fractured finger during the first innings. However, with the Rest of India team nine wickets down in the second innings, and Tendulkar batting on 85, the late Raj Singh Dungarpur urged Gursharan to bat ‘with one hand.’

Gursharan heeded Dungarpur’s request and took to the field, providing crucial support while Tendulkar achieved a century, which ultimately paved the way for his entry into the Indian national team. Despite his many achievements, Tendulkar has never forgotten Gursharan’s invaluable support.

Recollecting the moment during an Ageas Federal Life Insurance event, Tendulkar said, “That was my trial match for the Indian team. Gursharan wasn’t supposed to bat, but he listened to Raj Singh’s request and helped me reach my 100. That led to my selection for India. Gursharan later joined the Indian team as well. I was deeply thankful to him for batting with a broken hand; his intent and attitude were truly touching.”

During his time in New Zealand, Tendulkar promised Gursharan, “Gushi, one day you will retire. You can’t play forever. But when you do and have a benefit match, I promise I will come and play.” True to his word, Tendulkar fulfilled this promise.

Years later, in 2005, Gursharan contacted Tendulkar to inform him of a benefit match planned for the following year, inviting him to participate. Tendulkar warmly recalled telling Gursharan, “I promised you in New Zealand (in 1990) to play in your benefit match, and 15 years later, I will keep that promise.” With a smile, he added, “These memories linger with me. I am proud to say, I kept my promise.”

Published on Dec 09, 2025