IML 2025: Cricket fans at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara were treated to a nostalgic masterclass as Sachin Tendulkar rolled back the years with a breathtaking display in the International Masters League (IML) 2025. Despite India Masters facing a 95-run defeat to Australia Masters, it was Tendulkar’s fluent strokeplay that stole the spotlight, evoking memories of his prime.
Shane Watson (110*) and Ben Dunk (132*) powered Australia Masters to an imposing total of 269/2 in 20 overs. In response, India Masters were bowled out for 174, with left-arm spinner Xavier Doherty claiming an impressive 5/25.
Tendulkar’s Straight Six: ‘Shot of the Night’
Tendulkar’s explosive 64 off just 33 balls featured seven boundaries and four massive sixes. The highlight of his innings was a stunning straight six off Ben Hilfenhaus, a shot that left the opposition in awe. Australia Masters’ skipper Shane Watson, who watched the moment unfold from the field, later called it the ‘shot of the night’.
“We won the match, but I think Sachin played the shot of the night. That straight drive took me back 15 years instantly. The way he hit that six straight down the ground, I think all the boys were silently clapping. There were two standout shots: that straight drive for six and a cover drive for six. It was a treat to be out there,” Watson said after the match.
IML 2025 Brings Cricket Legends Back on the Field
The inaugural season of IML has been a grand spectacle, allowing fans to relive the glory days of some of the sport’s biggest names. Watson praised the competitive nature of the tournament, highlighting the thrill of playing alongside and against cricketing icons.
“It’s so much fun to be out in the middle again, playing against someone like Sachin and watching him do his thing—it was ridiculously good. The quality of cricket has been outstanding, and if people at home aren’t entertained, I don’t know what will entertain them,” Watson added.
What’s Next in IML 2025?
The action continues in IML 2025 as Kumar Sangakkara’s Sri Lanka Masters take on Brian Lara’s West Indies Masters in a highly anticipated clash at 7 PM tonight. Fans can catch all the action live on Colors Cineplex (HD & SD), Colors Cineplex Superhits, and streaming on JioHotstar.
Match Summary:
Australia Masters – 269/2 (20 overs)
- Ben Dunk – 132* (67)
- Shane Watson – 110* (59)
India Masters – 174 all out (18.3 overs)
- Sachin Tendulkar – 64 (33)
- Xavier Doherty – 5/25
With the final set for March 16 in Raipur, the tournament is heating up as cricket legends battle it out for the IML 2025 title.
