ODI World Cup 2023: Sachin Tendulkar announces India's 'Best Fielder of the Match' versus Sri Lanka

India became the first team to book their spot in the semi-finals of the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 after convincingly defeating Sri Lanka by a massive margin of 302 runs. After the match, T Dilip said that the 'Best Fielder' award winner's name will be declared by a legend. That legend was none other than Sachin Tendulkar.

The former India captain announced Shreyas Iyer as the 'Best Fielder' for the game against the 'Lankan Lions'. After every match, the name of the 'Best Fielder' is revealed in a special way. However, none would match this latest method of revelation. Sachin virtually connected with the Indian team and praised captain Rohit Sharma and the team management for coming up with the Best Fielder ceremony that is working as a great team bonding exercise.

Sachin Tendulkar announced Shreyas Iyer as the best fielder of the match.

Shreyas is now the 2nd one after KL Rahul to win the medal 2 times.#ShreyasIyer pic.twitter.com/v6obQnmYBz

— Pick-up Shot (@96ShreyasIyer) November 3, 2023

 The healthy camaraderie in the team is palpable from the videos that have surfaced from the previous ceremonies and the initiative has been lauded by fans as well as experts. Now, Sachin's endorsement is only going to make this dressing room ritual more special. Interestingly enough, the 'Master Blaster' also shared an anecdote from the 2003 World Cup where India finished runners-up after losing to Australia in the finals.

When we were playing in South Africa, we had a chart, It was all about commitment: Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar revealed that during the mega event, every Indian player was asked to sign a chart which depicted the commitment level of a player needed in such big tournaments. Besides, the legend did not miss out on telling the Rohit Sharma-led side that the current team also portrays the same spirit which was reflected by their stupendous performances on the field in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023. Moreover, Tendulkar expressed his delight in the 'Men in Blue' carrying a relentless approach which other teams are finding it tough to handle.

"When we were playing in South Africa, we had a chart. It had 'I can, we can' mentioned and every player had to sign that chart before going out on the field. It was all about commitment… that I will give my 100 commitment to the country and the team. That is exactly what the current team is doing by giving a fielding medal," Tendulkar said during his video interaction with the Indian team.

"It is a reflection of your commitment to do something for your colleague, for your team and for the country. I've simply loved the brand of cricket that you have played so far. It's been a joy to watch," Tendulkar said in a video message which was played on a giant screen inside the Indian dressing room," the former legendary batter concluded.

The Indian players and support staff were watching the 50-year-old speaking his words of wisdom. Towards the end of the video, Sachin announced Shreyas Iyer as the best fielder in the match against Sri Lanka. KL Rahul did the honours as others cheered on.

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