The difference between Sachin Tendulkar's 34th birthday and his 35th, which he celebrates on Thursday, could not be starker.

One year ago the master batsman, considered to be among the all-time greats of the game and perhaps next only to Don Bradman in stature as a pure batsman, was distraught following India's early and shameful exit from the World Cup and celebrated his birthday quietly at his home with his family.