Who is jersey number 10 in cricket
Cricket, a rich sport in history and tradition; known for its key possessions such as the bat, ball, wickets, protective gear, the ground rules and perhaps something more substantial – jersey numbers. The number is not just a numeral displayed on an athlete’s uniform but rather represents an identity. Since the inception of limited-overs cricket, jersey numbers have gained significant value and meaning to players and their fans alike. A lot of intrigue tends to funnel towards those sporting No.10.
The significance of Number 10 in Cricket
When you hear someone mention ‘Number 10’ or ‘Jersey No.10’, it is enduringly associated with legends across various sports – from football’s Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi to basketball’s Walt Frazier or Tim Hardaway and also in cricket’s prominent Sachin Tendulkar.
It becomes important here to address why there’s so much fuss about this number specifically in cricket? In football or basketball, jersey numbers correlate directly with the position that player plays within their team structure. However, in cricket, this correlation does not exist. Yet players often choose their favorite numbers or numbers assigned become dear due to some personal significance. Hence considered special by many like Sachin Tendulkar chose jersey number 10 which went on becoming iconic.
Sachin Tendulkar: India’s Mr.10
Sachin’s Journey wearing Jersey number 10
Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar needs no introduction if we’re discussing cricket. He was seen adorning the Indian Blue Number 10 for most of his illustrious career making this became synonymous with him worldwide.
Full Video in Youtube
The journey began when he decided to pick ‘No. 10’ during a tri-series involving India, South Africa and Kenya back in 1996 where cricketers were asked to pick their jersey numbers. His decision was a simple one as the sum of his birthdate (24/4/1973) equals 10 hence choosing this number.
Throughout his career spanning from 1989-2013, the ‘No.10’ legacy became distinguishable and held immense respect amongst cricket followers and fellow cricketers. He recorded an astounding 100 international centuries during his reputable career while wearing No. 10 for the Indian cricket team.
Sachin Tendulkar: Leaving behind No.10 Legacy
His efficacy and influence in cricket resulted in fans deeply associating Jersey No.10 with Sachin himself rendering it ‘special’ status within India’s cricket fraternity. Following his retirement in November 2013, it was considered enigmatic by many young successors due to its overwhelming history.
In fact, subsequently, Indian cricketers have avoided wearing ’No.10’ out of respect rendering it almost retired until Shardul Thakur opted for it but swiftly changed after being highlighted its significance by fans on social media which re-states how significant it is not just numerically but emotionally related to millions of Tendulkar’s fans worldwide.
Will we see another No.10?
The question that arises now is will we see someone else adorning the ‘Jersey Number 10’? Only time can tell if someone else feels brave enough to bear the weight of expectations attached or if its charm ride only within few legends thus considering retiring these numbers officially like seen recently in football for Maradona’s No. 10 by Napoli FC honoring his immeasurable impact over years..
Until then, the story and magic of jersey number 10 remains etched in the chronicles of cricket enchanted through Sachin Tendulkar making us believe whilst saying – “Carrying the expectations of a billion isn’t easy but someone’s got to do it”.
