Leading up to and since India’s thrilling victory in the 2011 World Cup, debate has intensified about the little master’s place in the game. This is really very silly. Can there be any debate? Surely not. Any serious and honest cricket lover’s view must be the same. There can be no denying that Sachin is the greatest of all cricketers. Here’s but just ten reasons, strictly in order of importance, why:
1. He is forever humble
2. He enjoys the game for what it is, his greatest privilege
3. He doesn't care about statistics, he is the ultimate team player
4. He is the ultimate batsman, whose tactical awareness is determined with strategic precision
5. He plays everywhere, not just in England and Australia
6. He faces Waquar, Ambrose, Slinger, Murali, Warne, Lee, McGrath
7. He excels in every form of the game, not just test matches
8. He carries the weight of a nation of a billion and then some, without remorse or desperation
9. He carries himself off the pitch with decency, respect and humility
10. He inspires a nation of greatness to become forever greater
10b. Check that ratty ole Newbury bat with sponsor’s dreds, you know that shows class!
He is quite simply, the master, Sachin Tendulkar, deservedly saluted as the ultimate idol of our times. May all the joy be yours for the entertainment you have bought, and the dreams you enthuse on a forever grateful public. He’s not even a left hander!
"I have seen God. He bats at no. 4 in India in Tests." – Matthew Hayden
Print | posted on Monday, April 04, 2011 9:39 AM