Sachin Tendulkar recalls savouring tasty food at childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar’s house

Sachin Tendulkar recalls savouring tasty food at childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar’s house. (Photo Source: Sanjeev Verma/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

Sachin Tendulkar’s childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar’s memorial was unveiled by the legendary cricketer at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park in Mumbai on December 3. The event was attended by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena President Raj Thackeray and former cricketer Vinod Kambli. The event coincided with the 92nd birth anniversary of the former coach.

Late Achrekar’s most revered student, Tendulkar recalled his childhood memories with his coach. The former India cricketer recalled the moment when he had food at Achrekar’s house and relished mutton curry, pav, lemon and onion. This was one of many moments where Tendulkar has always been vocal about the role of his coach in developing him as a cricketer and as person.

“We used to go to his home, were invited by him and his wife, and our favourite diet was mutton curry, pav, lemon and onion. Vishakha used to come and serve us. He (Achrekar) would give me some money and say, ‘go and grab a vada-pav’, when I realised that I had done something great that day,” said Tendulkar as quoted by News18.

“Sir’s vision was to teach us not just how to play cricket, but also how to respect the game and everything associated with it. One of his most important lessons was about respecting your cricket kit. I tell many players, even today, never throw your bat in frustration. Remember, you are sitting in the dressing room because of that bat, so never do that,” he added.

For the unversed, Achrekar was awarded the prestigious Dronacharya Award in 1990. The iconic coach was bestowed with the Padma Shri in 2010. He breathed his last January 2019. It is worth noting that, Achrekar had earlier commence a coaching academy in Mumbai which is still going strong.