Sachin Tendulkar is approaching 40 but after more than two decades in international cricket, the legendary batsman continues to be an enigma to players across the world.
"When you have achieved the amount Sachin has, it is very easy to let your guard down. Sachin's uniqueness is his ability to keep the intensity going even after 24 years of international cricket. He still chases every ball hard, runs every single with intensity, appeals with great passion and celebrates like a youngster. Such passion for the game is unprecedented and I think every youngster should learn from him," said Clarke.
Sachin Tendulkar is approaching 40 but after more than two decades in international cricket, the legendary batsman continues to be an enigma to players across the world.
Tendulkar, who celebrates his birthday on April 24, has spent close to 24 years as an India cricketer but not once has his name been smeared in controversy. Known to respect his colleagues and opponents alike, Tendulkar has never backed away from challenge but the iconic batsman has never been blamed for poor behaviour.
Not surprisingly, Tendulkar has always had avid followers in Australia from the public to the cricketing fraternity. Shane Warne, over the years, had formed a close bond with his biggest nemesis while current skipper Michael Clarke finds Tendulkar's intensity unique.
"When you have achieved the amount Sachin has, it is very easy to let your guard down. Sachin's uniqueness is his ability to keep the intensity going even after 24 years of international cricket. He still chases every ball hard, runs every single with intensity, appeals with great passion and celebrates like a youngster. Such passion for the game is unprecedented and I think every youngster should learn from him," said Clarke.
In fact, former Australian pacer Glenn McGrath, who had been engaged in some interesting duels with Tendulkar over the years, toned his sledging down against the Indian icon, fearing it would propel him to greater heights.
"I always felt it made him more determined. My success against him came when I didn't say a great deal. I realised quickly it was best not to talk too much," McGrath said.
Former India coach Gary Kirsten who had also played against Tendulkar in his days as a South African cricketer said the Indian run-scoring machine was the game's greatest role model.
"I have always found Sachin to be a thoroughly decent person. He is a humble man considering his cricket status around the world. He is cricket's greatest role model and continues to provide a great example for young aspiring cricketers on how to conduct oneself throughout one's career. Although I got to know him better when I was with the Indian team, my views have never changed," said Kirsten.
Kirsten recalled his time as the Indian coach and said Tendulkar was the ultimate team man, who always wanted the side to do well.
"I felt he had a fantastic presence in the dressing room without having to say too much. I used to really enjoy watching him have conversations with the young players on how to deal with match situations. In the time I was with the team, I always felt he had a strong desire for the team to do well, regardless of his own personal success."
Kirsten was awed by Tendulkar's keenness to always learn and improve despite achieving almost every batting record that is to be coveted. Teammates from the last quarter of a century have remarked on his outstanding work ethics and how he never wanted to take anything for granted. As coach, Kirsten had the chance to see those qualities from close quarters.
"I loved spending time in the nets with Sachin. His desire to continue asking questions and learn about his game will long live with me. However, the evening his wife Anjali came up to me to say thank you for everything I had done will remain a highlight of my coaching career," Kirsten said.
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