Former cricketers laud ‘champion’ Sachin Tendulkar’s great feat
India batsman Sachin Tendulkar scored hundredth ton against Bangladesh during their Asia Cup tie at Dhaka on Friday © Getty Images
New Delhi: Mar 16, 2012
The greatest batsman to have ever played the game, the King of India, a true champion — accolades poured in for Sachin Tendulkar as the superstar became the first cricketer in history to score 100 international centuries.
Many of the game’s greats across the world hailed the achievement of the Indian batting maestro whose own reaction in Mirpur in Bangladesh was one of great relief. ‘It hasn’t sunk in but I have definitely lost about 50 kg”, he jokingly said after reaching the milestone.
In fact shortly before Tendulkar hit the hundred, former England captain Nasser Hussain said Sir Donald Bradman was great but “for me the greatest batsman to have ever played the game is Sachin Tendulkar”.
Another cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar described this century-of-centuries as a “mind-boggling achievement”.
Tendulkar’s approach, focus and concentration is incredible, he added.
Sourav Ganguly, former skipper, described Tendulkar as an absolute champion and said “all of us are proud of him”.
Former Pakistan captain Javed Miandad said that Tendulkar had achieved a landmark which was not easy. “Full marks to him and congratulations on behalf of me and Pakistan cricket”.
Sri Lankan great Arjuna Ranatunga also joined in felicitating the batsman describing Tendulkar as a role model for the world.
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden said that Tendulkar was a movement in himself. “He has been scrutinised, reflected upon. He is one of the greatest cricketers of all time. He is the King of India”.
From South Africa, former all rounder Lance Klusener said that Tendulkar was a “true champion”. (PTI)
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