Sachin my dream

In a country like India, it's really difficult to call someone a hardcore cricket fan simply because cricket followers here are ubiquitous. And the success of the inaugural DLF Indian Premier League (IPL) has proved that the appetite for cricket here is never satiated. Indian fans will never be tired of rooting for their favourite teams, and cricketers will continue to rule the hearts of crazy fans.

A conch in one hand, upper body painted in the tricolour and the head shaved in a manner to resemble the Indian map is how Sudhir decks himself up before every match that features Sachin Tendulkar. Known as Sachin's biggest fan Sudhir, who hails from Bihar travels everywhere in India and also to neighbouring countries to watch his favourite star unleash his classy act.

"There is no one in this world like Sachin. He is the best batsman in the world and his legacy is unmatched," he says proudly. The camera beaming live pictures always spots him and he is now an easily recognizable face.

And guess who helps him get in all the time? The master blaster himself!

"Har match ka ticket mujhe Sachin ji dete hai (Sachin gets me tickets for every game). I blow the conch once the practice session gets over to get his attention and he later either calls me or sends it with someone," he explains.

Travelling everywhere might be fun but it hasn't been all that rosy for the die-hard fan. "Sometimes I really struggle to get accommodation. I have slept in the grounds many a times. Recently my mobile phone was stolen in Chennai," he adds. But this has still not dented his confidence.

Talking about his favourite moment he says that after winning an ODI in Goa, Sachin had called him for an official party. "I was extremely thrilled to attend the party. And as the party started to peak, Sachin asked me to dance. I was quite nervous but had to follow his orders. So I danced somehow and later he too chipped in."
Every year Sudhir makes it a point to get lychees of the finest quality for the special batsman and self-delivers it at Sachin's home. He is visibly disappointed with Mumbai Indians not making it to the semis but still comes to the ground as his favourite star has directed him to be neutral and show his love for the game.