Image: Sachin Tendulkar's incredible performance led the India Masters to victory / © Hindustan Times
In the inaugural Indian Masters League (IML), Sachin Tendulkar showcased his vintage brilliance, scoring a 21-ball 34 as India Masters secured a dominant nine-wicket victory over England Masters at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. Chasing 132, India Masters cruised to the target in just 11.4 overs, led by Gurkeerat Singh Maan’s unbeaten 63 off 30 balls.
Tendulkar entertained the crowd with five fours and a six before being dismissed by Chris Schofield. Yuvraj Singh added a quickfire 27* off 14 balls, sealing the victory alongside Gurkeerat in an unbroken 57-run stand. Earlier, England Masters, led by Eoin Morgan, struggled after being invited to bat. Dhawal Kulkarni was the standout bowler, claiming 3/21, while Pawan Negi (2/16) and Abhimanyu Mithun (2/22) provided crucial breakthroughs.
Darren Maddy (25) and Tim Ambrose (23) steadied the innings after early setbacks, but England was restricted to 132/8. Chris Schofield’s late 18* off 8 balls added some respectability. However, India’s disciplined bowling attack ensured a comfortable chase. The match saw electric moments, with fans erupting in nostalgic “Sachin, Sachin” chants, reminiscing his golden days.