Sachin Tendulkar's IPL Journey: First IPL Season vs Last IPL Season performance comparison

2When the Indian Premier League began in 2008, fans waited to witness Sachin Tendulkar walking out in Mumbai Indians colours. The legendary batter missed the initial phase due to injury, but he finally returned on 14 May 2008 to make his IPL debut. Notably, it came on a night when Sanath Jayasuriya smashed an unbeaten 114, recording Mumbai’s first-ever win against Chennai Super Kings.

Meanwhile, in his debut IPL season, Sachin couldn’t quite produce the fireworks. Returning from injury, he played seven matches, scoring 188 runs at 31.33, including a 65 off 46 balls against Kings XI Punjab, which MI eventually lost by just one run.

His strike rate in 2008 was 106.21, which displayed that he was still adjusting to the league’s pace and the newer T20 format. Despite the decent returns with the bat, Sachin’s role as captain and opener made him the face of the franchise.

The 2013 season had a different approach altogether. The Mumbai Indians were more experienced, more balanced, and hungry for a title that had away them for five years. Sharing the dressing room and the opening slot with Ricky Ponting created a memorable moment for every '90s kid. Two giants who once dominated the game against each other first walked out together in Blue and Gold.

Though both legends stepped aside early in the season, the visual of Tendulkar-Ponting opening is one of IPL’s most iconic memories. In his farewell season, Tendulkar played 14 matches, scoring 287 runs at a strike rate of 124.24, a huge jump from 2008. He wasn’t at his peak, but his attacking intent made him still very much valuable in a competitively younger squad.

Chappell compares English batter to young Sachin

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Chappell compares English batter to young Sachin

His last scoring shot in the IPL came not in the final, but in a league match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, a six over long-on. Unfortunately, that very shit injured him, forcing him to retire hurt. He never recovered in time to return to the XI.

After the Mumbai Indians defeated CSK in the IPL 2013 final to lift their maiden title, Tendulkar announced his retirement. The veteran didn't make any dramatic buildup. His farewell included a lap of honour and teammates lifting him in celebration.

Sachin Tendulkar's IPL 2008 vs IPL 2013 performance comparison