Sachin Tendulkar Awarded with Life Membership at Dubai's Els Golf Club

Sachin Tendulkar may now be seen swinging on a different pitch after the legendary batsman was awarded a life membership at The Els Club Golf Course from Dubai Sports City partner Abdulrahman Falaknaz.

"Sachin (Tendulkar) has given so much to the world of sport, both through his performances and also the way he has conducted himself over more than two decades at the very highest level. Therefore, it was fitting for us to have given him something whilst expressing our thanks and recognition for all that he has achieved," said Falaknaz. (Need to practice for two months before MCC match vs Warne: Tendulkar)

The picturesque golf course and club, which is designed by legendary South African golfer Ernie Els, indicated it was honoured to have Tendulkar as their life member, who graced the clubhouse during his IPL stay as the icon of the Mumbai Indians.

The Els Club general manager Chris Brown said Tendulkar indulged in a nine-hole golf session with teaching professional Jamie McConnell and also received a two-hour lesson from Justin Parsons, Director of Instruction at Butch Harmon School of Golf.

"Having Sachin Tendulkar spend time with us and receive his honorary life membership of The Els Club was a huge pleasure, and his presence extends the list of star names we have had over the past few months," said a beaming Brown.

That list of lifetime members includes former World No. 1 Rory McIlroy, Hollywood actor Will Smith and ex-Manchester United and Denmark goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.

But Tendulkar, who retired from cricket last November as the most capped player and the leading run-scorer of all-time at the international level, is in a league of his own and the club management understands the responsibility of having the batting great on board.

"We look forward to Sachin making The Els Club his golfing home away from home. One thing he will be guaranteed when he does return is a world-class welcome," said Brown.