The 10th World Cup starts on Saturday in Dhaka when Bangladesh entertain India. It should be a cracker, with a full house guaranteed as the underdogs yap at their big neighbours, hopeful of a repeat of their shock victory four years ago in the Caribbean. It should presage a tournament full of vibrancy and madcap bustle.
Sachin Tendulkar was carried around his home ground like a triumphant king as India's World Cup winners dedicated victory to their country's cricketing icon.
'
The Little Master' - looking for his 100th international century - could manage only 18 in the final, but that did not discredit from a night of celebration.
Team-mate Virat Kohli admitted: "This is for Sachin and goes out to all the people of India.
"Sachin has carried the burden of a nation for 21 years, so it was time for us to carry him."
An emotional
Tendulkar finally earned the trophy that has eluded him in five previous attempts and said: "I couldn't have asked for anything better than this. I was not able to control my tears, but they were happy tears so I don't mind crying.
"To be a part of this team is a great honour."
Paceman Zaheer Khan added: "It is a dream come true - and we wanted it so badly for this very special guy."
"I wanted to create an environment where the team was happy and felt like team. Sachin for me was the master in this way," he added.
The South African also said it would be great if Tendulkar could continue to play till 2015 World Cup but admitted that he was getting old and must now become selective in his approach.
"In 2015, he would be 42...I think that would be great. He doesn't want to retire because he is enjoying the game. I am proud of him. But he is getting old and he would have to pick and choose his games," said Kirsten.
"When we got the world cup in our hands and the popping of champagne. Also, when the team lifted me with the tri-colour in my hand. That was the ultimate feeling", said Sachin.
Sachin - "I think he set great examples in the way cricket should be played and in tough conditions he would produce some tremendous performances"
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