Likening cricket star Sachin Tendulkar to the legendary Sir Don Bradman, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown on Monday made a "strong case" for bestowing knighthood on one of the great cricketers of the world.
"I am sure people recognise that just as Sir Don Bradman and others got the honours as honorary knighthoods for work they did for cricket, for sport and for extending cultural links and sporting links between countries and across the world, there is a strong case for those who make huge contribution as to sports," Brown, who is on a two-day official visit to India, said here.
"Sachin Tendulkar is one of the great cricketers of the world," he said addressing a joint press conference with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
"(But) It is not for me to decide on the honours in our country. It is for independent honours committee," he said. Brown also applauded the Indian cricket team for its Test victory over Australia in Perth, noting that the Indians had brought to a halt the dream run of the Australians who had won 16 matches in a row.
Earlier, talking to reporters, he said cricketing greats from the Commonwealth nations such as Tendulkar should be considered for traditional British honours like the knighthood.
{{/usCountry}}Earlier, talking to reporters, he said cricketing greats from the Commonwealth nations such as Tendulkar should be considered for traditional British honours like the knighthood.
{{/usCountry}}Noting that cricket is one of the great things that bind the Commonwealth together, he said there was a time when top cricketers from the countries in the grouping would be recognised by the British people through its honoured system.