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This article was first published 11 years ago

When Sir Vivan Richards left everyone star-struck

Last updated on: April 22, 2013 09:01 IST

Image: Viv Richards
Photographs: BCCI

It doesn't get bigger than this. Vivan Richards and Sachin Tendulkar at the same ground in opposite camps.

Yes, this was the scene at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground on Sunday, when Delhi Daredevils took on Mumbai Indians in the IPL match.

The legendary West Indian who has been hired as an advisor by the struggling Delhi team left everyone star struck at the ground.

When Sir Vivan Richards left everyone star-struck

Image: Viv Richards and Sachin Tendulkar
Photographs: BCCI

Sachin Tendulkar, who was busy warming up before the match, left his throw downs in the middle to meet Sir Viv.

They exchanged pleasantries as Richards joked around with the Master Blaster about his abs.

He may be out of the game, but was still excited enough to hold a bat in his hand.

When Sir Vivan Richards left everyone star-struck

Image: Viv Richards
Photographs: BCCI

Tendulkar was not the only one who was left spellbound by the West Indian great.

Delhi Daredevils skipper Mahela Jayawardene admitted that he too was "star struck" like any other youngster when Richards met the team at the hotel on Saturday.

"We knew that the franchise had planned about him joining the squad. But when he walked in I was like star struck as I was meeting him in person for the first time," Jayawardene said.

He added that the meeting left the boys inspired.

"It is simply great to speak to him about the game -- the simple manner in which he describes the game. It's not only inspirational for youngsters, but also for seniors like us.

"He told us that when you are pushed back to the wall, you need to come out of it and keep improving and be more competitive."

When Sir Vivan Richards left everyone star-struck

Image: Viv Richards, Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Smith
Photographs: BCCI

Sir Viv's effect was seen on the struggling Virender Sehwag as well as he smashed his way to an unbeaten 95 to guide Delhi to its first victory in the IPL this season.

From the opponent's camp, Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Smith too met Richards before before the teams went back to the dressing room to get ready for the match.