Sachin Tendulkar ends his four-year association with ISL club Kerala Blasters

India's cricketing god, Sachin Tendulkar has decided to end his four-year long association with Kerala Blasters after selling off his stake and stepping down as co-promoter of Indian Super League (ISL) club.

Sachin, who has been with club ever since inception of league in 2014, anunced his decision weeks ahead of ISL 2018/19 season. In a statement released regarding his exit from club, former Indian opener said, "In its fifth year, it is important that club puts building blocks for next five years and beyond. It is also a time for me to reflect on role that I should play. After reflecting and much discussion with my team, I have decided to exit my association with Kerala Blasters as a co-promoter."

"I strongly believe that Kerala Blasters is in very good shape and on its path to attain many more successes with backing of its fans offering unconditional support. I am very proud of Kerala Blasters and a piece of my heart will always beat for club," he added.

'Master Blaster' was one of two former Indian cricketers, apart from Sourav Ganguly, with stake in an ISL club. In his four years, Kerala Blasters reached final in 2014 and 2016. 

"Over last four years, Kerala Blasters Football Club has been an integral part of my life. I have undergone all emotions that millions of Kerala Blasters fans have undergone during this period.  My association with Kerala Blasters was driven with intent to reignite passion for game and give many fans and abundant talent in Kerala, a national platform to express mselves. It has been a thrilling experience to chase this pursuit and something which I will always cherish," cricketing legend furr mentioned in statement.

fifth season of ISL will kickstart on September 29, with ATK taking on Kerala Blasters. Initially, tournament had eight teams -- ATK, Chennaiyin, Delhi Dynamos, Goa, Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City, rast United and Pune City . But success of competition in first three seasons meant that in 2017, two more teams, Bengaluru and Jameshedpur, were added to roster. ATK and Chennaiyan FC are most successful teams in history of tournament, having won league twice each.