Sachin Tendulkar’s cricket journey is filled with unmatched records, unforgettable knocks, and moments that shaped Indian cricket. But there is another side to his story that fans still remember — the umpiring controversies he faced in the pre-DRS era.
One name that often comes up in these discussions is former international umpire Steve Bucknor, whose decisions became a subject of debate among Indian fans for years.
Sachin’s Career and the Umpiring Challenges of His Era
In the days before technology-assisted decisions, players had no option but to accept the umpire’s call. Unfortunately, Sachin Tendulkar found himself on the wrong side of several such mistakes.
Even though he remained calm on the field, fans felt that these errors denied him many more runs and milestones.
The Brisbane 2003 Incident
One of the most talked-about moments happened in Brisbane in 2003.
Sachin left a delivery from Jason Gillespie that hit him high on the pads. To everyone’s disbelief, Bucknor raised his finger. Replays later showed the ball was nowhere near hitting the stumps.
The moment became one of the most controversial LBW calls in Sachin’s career.
The Eden Gardens 2005 Call
Another major moment came during India’s match against Pakistan in 2005.
Abdul Razzaq bowled a delivery that clearly missed Sachin’s bat, yet he was given out caught behind.
The disappointment was visible on Sachin’s face as he walked back to the pavilion.
Fans still say that these two calls are among the most unfair dismissals of his career.
Sachin’s Light and Humorous Response
Despite facing multiple wrong decisions, Sachin always chose dignity over confrontation.
During his first AMA (Ask Me Anything) on Reddit, a fan mentioned Steve Bucknor.
Sachin responded with a playful line, showing he had moved on with grace and humour.
His reply became viral and reminded fans of his calm and composed personality.
Sachin’s Cheeky Post in 2024
In 2024, Sachin once again brought a fun twist to the topic.
He posted a photo of himself standing in front of large tree trunks, comparing them to oversized stumps.
Fans instantly understood the indirect reference, and the post created a buzz on social media.
It showed how Sachin now looks back at those moments with a smile instead of frustration.
A Unique Chapter in a Glorious Career
Sachin Tendulkar and Steve Bucknor’s umpiring errors form an unusual subplot in the legend’s cricket story.
But these incidents never affected his dignity, sportsmanship, or love for the game.
Instead, Sachin turned them into jokes and memories, proving once again why he remains one of the most respected cricketers in the world.
FAQs
What did Sachin say about Steve Bucknor?
Sachin responded in a humorous way, joking about giving Bucknor boxing gloves so he couldn’t lift his finger easily.
Why is Steve Bucknor often mentioned with Sachin?
Because Bucknor made several questionable decisions against Sachin, especially before the DRS era.
Did these decisions affect Sachin’s career?
They may have denied him a few more runs, but they never affected his greatness or his approach to the game.
How does Sachin handle these memories today?
Sachin talks about them with humour and positivity, without any bitterness.
Conclusion
Sachin Tendulkar’s relationship with Steve Bucknor’s umpiring mistakes is a memorable part of cricket history.
What stands out is not the wrong decisions — but Sachin’s respectful and light-hearted way of dealing with them. His grace, humour, and humility remind the world why he continues to be admired far beyond the cricket field.