For a young cricketer, there are moments that shape belief forever. For India’s Under-19 World Cup-winning captain Ayush Mhatre, one such unforgettable chapter unfolded in Mumbai when none other than Sachin Tendulkar handed him a deeply personal gift — a signed Test jersey worn by the legend during his final international series. It was not just a meeting of generations, but a powerful passing of the torch.

Sachin Tendulkar gifts signed jersey from his last Test series to Ayush Mhatre

Fresh from leading India Under-19 cricket team to their sixth U19 World Cup title in Zimbabwe, Mhatre returned home to widespread admiration. India had outplayed England Under-19 cricket team in a high-pressure final, with Mhatre’s calm leadership and tactical maturity standing out throughout the tournament.

While accolades poured in from fans and experts alike, nothing compared to the personal recognition that awaited him. Tendulkar, a name synonymous with Indian cricketing dreams, chose to honour the teenager in a way that words alone never could.

What made the gesture extraordinary was the story stitched into the fabric. Tendulkar revealed that the jersey he gifted was one he wore during his final Test series for India — a symbol of closure for one journey and the beginning of another. Along with the jersey came a handwritten note, simple yet profound, encouraging Mhatre to stay grounded and focused amid growing attention.

“Keep working hard. Focus. Don’t get carried away by people. Keep practising,” Tendulkar advised in the video shared online.

“There will be plenty of distractions, whatever they may be. Dear Ayush, wishing you all the success in your career,” added the former India skipper.

Here’s the video:

U19 World Cup ✔️
Blessings from the God Of Cricket himself ✔️
Onward, Ayush 💛🤩#WhistlePodu
📽️: Ayush Mhatre pic.twitter.com/dHMTNgnMnX

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 9, 2026

Also WATCH: Virar erupts in celebration as Ayush Mhatre gets grand welcome after U19 World Cup triumph

A lesson beyond runs and trophies

For Mhatre, the moment went beyond celebration. It was a reminder that success at the junior level is only the first step in a long and demanding journey. Tendulkar’s message underlined values that defined his own career — discipline, humility, and relentless preparation. Those close to Mhatre say the young captain was visibly moved, aware that the jersey carried decades of Indian cricketing history. In a country where Tendulkar remains an eternal benchmark, receiving such a gift is both an honour and a responsibility.

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