Waugh asks Sachin to keep playing Test cricket

PUNE (India) Indias 37-year-old master-blaster Sachin Tendulkar, who equalled the record of playing the highest number of Test matches (168) with Steve Waugh is still capable of playing another 32 Test matches, according to the former Australian captain. Speaking exclusively to this scribe from Delhi, where he was invited to address the school children, he said without exaggeration, Sachin might play 200 Tests. Waugh was aware about the fact that less number of Test matches are now being played. Sachin, if does not miss the third Test against Sri Lanka which begins on August 3 at Colombos P Sara Oval, will be the owner of one more world record. He (Sachin) is fantastic and I have no regrets over passing my record to him, Waugh further added. Though both have played same number of Tests, Sachin has scored 2800 runs and 13 tons more than Waugh. However, Waugh has the distinction of leading his side to winning the World Cup and Sachin himself wants to be the member of the 2011 World Cup winning team. Promoters paid tribute to Waugh by handing out giant red handkerchiefs to incoming spectators. (Waugh had always used a red handkerchief to wipe perspiration while he was batting). When Sachin retires, many more handkerchiefs will be distributed among people to wipe off their tears. And yes, Sachin will surpass the farewell parties of late Don Bradman and more recently Muttiah Muralitharan. Indias legendary singer, Asha Bhosle, who wants Sachin be named Bharat Ratna, has said, Why only till World Cup, he can play as long as he wants. He has passion to play cricket and this strong desire even inspire me to continue singing at this age of 75. She also said that Tendulkars never-say-die attitude is a source of inspiration for her also.

ePaper - Nawaiwaqt