Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar turns 46, India wishes him

Indian skipper Virat Kohli tweeted: "Wish you a very Happy B'day Paaji, have a great year ahead. @sachin_rt ."

Former cricketer Virender Sehwag posted: "With the Master, the Rise is Faster ! 46, as much as it represents the years you have blessed this planet, for me 4 6 is more about how the scorecard read at beginning of the over when you batted. May you continue to manifest your strength in innumerable ways #HappyBirthdaySachin."

VVS Laxman, another former Indian cricketer, said: "Happy Birthday to a very special cricketer and human being who gave many memorable moments to us and cricket lovers around the world. He was and continues to be a hero and an inspiration @sachin_rt . #HappyBirthdaySachin."

Suresh Raina, cricketer, posted: "What more could I write for someone who has inspired generations to respect, learn & be skilled at a sport loved by billions. Happy birthday, @sachin_rt stay blessed always! This time the lunch is on me #HappyBirthdaySachin."

Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif said: "Many more happy returns of the day to the little boy who stole a billion hearts with his resolve and genius , now a man who continues to inspire , @sachin_rt Paaji. HappyBirthdaySachin."

The legend, who has entertained his fans for over 24 years with the cricket bat, started to play for the national team in 1989, at just 16 years of age.

Tendulkar is known for his masterclass with the bat as he is the only batsman to score 100 centuries across all formats of the sport.

Not only 100 hundreds, Tendulkar has a number of world records under his belt.

The most international runs, highest number of matches played by any cricketer are all owned by the man, who is also known as the 'Master Blaster'.

Though he didn't get much success as a leader, Tendulkar captained the Indian team for two terms.

However, his batting class was proved time and again. In 2003 World Cup, though India lost in the final against Australia, Tendulkar was named the man of the tournament, scoring more than 600 runs.

Tendulkar, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, retired from international cricket in 2013.

Image: Suresh Raina Twitter page