 "Tendulkar's retirement marks an end of a golden era: Pawar")
"Sachin Tendulkar's decision to retire from Test cricket marks the end of a golden era for not only Indian cricket but of cricket world over. He strode the arena of cricket like a colossus and in his long innings, established many a milestones for himself and the game," Pawar, who was also the former ICC president, said.
"His achievements are an inspiration to all cricketers who are in the game and he will continue to be an inspiration for generations to come. As a sportsman, the qualities and the character which he displayed both on and off the field are exemplary.
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"His single-minded devotion, love and enthusiasm for the game were the driving force in his achievements. He is greatly admired by all cricket playing nations and has an immense fan following cutting across all social and cultural boundaries," he said in a statement.
Tendulkar today announced his decision to retire from the longest version of the game after playing in his landmark 200th match against the West Indies next month.
Pawar, the Union Agriculture Minister, hoped that Tendulkar will continue to be associated with cricket and contribute to the game in whatever capacity he can in the future.
"He has been compared with many greats of the game and is appropriately termed as 'Don Bradman of modern cricket'. I am sure he will keep himself associated with the development of this great game of cricket and our good wishes will always be there in all his endeavours," said Pawar.