Sachin Tendulkar returns from IPL to vote, urges Mumbaikars to turn out in big numbers

Sachin Tendulkar has returned to Mumbai from Dubai to cast his vote in the Lok Sabha elections. Tendulkar, who is an 'icon' with the Mumbai Indians team in the Indian Premier League, will vote on Thursday, the same day he will celebrate his 41st birthday.

Tendulkar, who is a Rajya Sabha MP, has urged Mumbaikars to come out in full numbers and cast their franchise. In his Facebook page, he wrote: "Every run counts in the game of cricket and every vote counts in an election. Don't underestimate the power of your vote. In Mumbai to exercise my right. Hope you play your part - Please Cast your vote." (Also read: Sachin Tendulkar better than Bradman, claims book based on forensic evidence)

Bharat Ratna Tendulkar retired from Test cricket in November last year. He played his last match in front of his home crowd at Wankhede Stadium. ( Also see: When Sachin Tendulkar became a golfer in Dubai)

Maharashtra, that sends 48 leaders to the Parliament, is voting in three phases. After the first two phases on April 10 and April 17, the final leg, covering 11 seats in Mumbai and Thane, go to polls on Thursday.