Synopsis
Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh are set to reunite on the cricket field after ten years, representing the India Masters in the inaugural International Masters League. This thrilling event marks the revival of their rivalry against Sri Lanka, giving fans a nostalgic experience as they witness these legends play together once more.Key Takeaways
- Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh reunite after a decade.
- India Masters will face Sri Lanka in the IML opener.
- Sachin has over 34,000 runs and 100 centuries.
- Yuvraj played a pivotal role in India's 2011 World Cup victory.
- The tournament features six teams, including legends from cricket.
Mumbai, Feb 21 (NationPress) The legendary cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh are poised to reunite on the cricket field after a decade, once again wearing the iconic blue jersey. This remarkable duo will represent the India Masters as they reignite their intense rivalry against Sri Lanka during the opening match of the inaugural International Masters League (IML) at DY Patil Sports Academy on Saturday.
A global cricketing legend with over 34,000 international runs and 100 centuries, Sachin has left an indelible mark across all formats of the game, yet he has only participated in one T20I for India. Thus, this event provides a rare chance for fans to see him don the Indian colors in the shortest format once more.
On the other hand, Yuvraj has shone as a dynamic all-rounder in over 400 matches, significantly contributing to India's most monumental victories, including the 2011 World Cup and the 2007 T20 World Cup. Their reunion for IML T20 2025 presents an exceptional opportunity for fans to witness two of India's greatest match-winners come together and rekindle their on-field magic.
Through the years, the encounters between India and Sri Lanka have captivated audiences with their high-stakes nature. The two teams have engaged in numerous memorable battles, none more remarkable than the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final, where India’s heroes clinched the coveted trophy after 28 years.
Cricketing icon and captain of the India Masters Team, Tendulkar, shared his thoughts on this renewed rivalry, stating, “We’ve had some unforgettable moments against Sri Lanka over the years, with the 2011 World Cup being particularly special. Returning to the field after so long and facing a team that has played such a significant role in our cricketing journey makes this occasion even more meaningful.”
“The International Masters League aims to reignite the passion for cricket and provide fans with a reason to cheer once more. I am eager to relive these rivalries, reconnect with former teammates, and hopefully deliver an exhilarating performance for the fans in this inaugural edition.”
With champions like Sachin and Yuvraj, alongside the Pathan brothers, Irfan and Yusuf, Stuart Binny, Dhawal Kulkarni, and others, the tournament presents fans a rare chance to witness their heroes in action once again.
Expressing his excitement about playing for the fans, Yuvraj remarked, “I can’t wait to step back onto the field. The India versus Sri Lanka clashes have always been thrilling, and I know the fans are just as excited as we are. Playing alongside legends and rekindling old rivalries encapsulates the essence of the International Masters League.”
“With Sachin paaji leading us against Sanga and the Sri Lankan squad, it truly feels like stepping back in time, but with the same fervor for the sport. The fans are in for a delightful experience, and we are prepared to deliver an extraordinary show.”
Starting from February 22, the inaugural IML T20 2025 features six teams: India, Sri Lanka, Australia, England, West Indies, and South Africa, each showcasing some of cricket’s biggest names.
The competition will take place across Navi Mumbai, Vadodara, and Raipur, with Raipur hosting the semi-finals and the final on March 16, where the champions will lift the trophy.
Kartikey Mishra, owner of the India Masters team, stated, “Uniting these legends for the India Masters Team is a celebration of cricket and its rich heritage in our country. These players have gifted fans countless unforgettable moments, and IML T20 2025 is about reliving that magic on the field once more. Beyond the competition, witnessing them back under the Indian tricolor rekindles the passion and excitement that made these names beloved both in India and globally in the cricketing world.”
Squads:
India Masters: Sachin Tendulkar (captain), Saurabh Tiwary, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Ambati Rayudu, Yuvraj Singh, Stuart Binny, Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan, Pawan Negi, Naman Ojha, Abhimanyu Mithun, Dhawal Kulkarni, Rahul Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem, Vinay Kumar.
Sri Lanka Masters: Kumar Sangakkara (captain), Lahira Thirimanne, Upul Tharanga, Asela Gunaratne, Ashan Priyanjan, Chinthaka Jayasinghe, Chaturanga de Silva, Dilruwan Perera, Jeevan Mendis, Isuru Udana, Romesh Kaluwitharana, Seekkuge Prasanna, Dhammika Prasad, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal.
