Trip down memory lane at Lahli: Sachin Tendulkar’s last domestic hurrah

Every place has a fable; a story it doesn’t tire of recollecting.

For the Chaudhary Bansi Lal Cricket Stadium in Lahli, that tale unfolded just over 11 years ago, when Sachin Tendulkar chose this venue for his final domestic First-Class game.

From October 27 to 30, 2013, Tendulkar brandished the hallowed Mumbai crest for the last time in a cricket match, as his side took on Haryana in a Ranji Trophy game here in Rohtak.

Sachin’s retirement game created a frenzy unlike anything Rohtak had experienced. The state machinery was forced into a scramble as it dove into the task of hosting the Mumbai team.

For the locals, it was a gift that fell out of nowhere. Thousands flocked from nearby villages and towns to have a glimpse of Sachin.

“At least 15,000 were at the ground every day of that match and around 5,000 were waiting outside. That is the biggest crowd I have ever seen in this stadium in my life. The atmosphere was…