Coach wanted Sachin to continue

Tucked away in the by lanes around Shivaji Park in Dadar, the residence of Ramakant Achrekar is as quaint as the gentleman. Kushal Phatarpekar reports.

Tucked away in the by lanes around Shivaji Park in Dadar, the residence of Ramakant Achrekar is as quaint as the gentleman. For he never aspired for wealth or accolades - his aim and dedication was for cricket and through his efforts and passion, he provided the country with an enigma to follow. All in the form of a pintsized run-machine who went on to conquer every record there was.

HT Image

Ramakant Achrekar is frail now, but for Indian cricket's most revered coach, the fight for life is as strong as his love for the game. On a day when Sachin Tendulkar quit limited overs cricket, the coach has been glued to the TV watching news about his famous ward's announcement, but due to his ill-health has largely been unable to give many reaction. Communicating through his daughter, Kalpana Murkar, Achrekar sir described his anguish at Sachin's sudden decision, saying he wanted him to play on as long as possible. "He should have continued playing in all formats. I wish to see him play as long as I live," Achrekar said.