When Sachin Tendulkar came out to bat with few overs left in the day's play yesterday, a Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) official quietly said: "I hope Sachin doesn't get out. People want to come to Motera tomorrow (Friday) just to watch him bat and score his 50th Test century.

They will be thrilled if that happens! Otherwise, there will be empty stands, since it's also Diwali time and people want to enjoy a long weekend."

As it turned out, the master played out 47 deliveries for 13 runs before stumps. "Diwali is our biggest festival, the whole city is gearing up to celebrate it. Tendulkar getting his 50th Test century here would be the greatest Diwali gift a Gujarati can ever receive," said a spectator.