Never endorsed gambling, tobacco or alcohol: Sachin Tendulkar pained by misleading social media ads

Batting great Sachin Tendulkar took to social media on Thursday to dismiss social media ads that show him endorsing a casino as fake, adding that he is pained by attempts at using him for misleading people.

Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Thursday took to social media to dismiss advertisements on social media that have "morphed images" of him endorsing a casino as fake, adding that it pains to see him being used to misleading people of the country.

Sachin Tendulkar, who has been known for his spotless image, did not personally endorse tobacco or alcohol brands even during his heydays. Tendulkar reiterated his stance on the issue and urged people to remain vigilant about the fake advertisements circulating on social media.

"It has come to my notice that there are multiple ads being shown on social media platforms, with a morphed photo showing me endorsing a casino.

"I have never endorsed gambling, tobacco or alcohol - directly or indirectly, in an individual capacity. it pains to see that my images are being used to mislead people," Tendulkar said in a social media post.

"While my legal team will be taking the required action, I felt it was important for me to share this information with everyone," he added.

Requesting everyone to remain vigilant about misleading images on social media. pic.twitter.com/VCJfdyJome

Tendulkar, who played 200 Tests, 463 ODIs and a lone T20I for India in his decorated 25-year-long international career, put out the statement even as the cricket fraternity is celebrating the 12th anniversary of his historic double hundred against South Africa in Gwalior.