There is a lot of talk about Sachin Tendulkar, more than the 2-0 Test series win by India. People have started saying that it is time for him to go after the three innings in which he did not live up to the high standards he's set for himself. This is not the right assessment. He is one player who knows when to go. Sachin should not be judged on the basis of three innings but over a period of eight to 10 Test matches.
There is talk about his footwork, slowness, but does one still expect him to move the way when he was 24? He has been in the fray for more than two decades, has achieved what others never dreamt of and knows how to adjust as per the situation.Yes, what has been apparent is the lack of match practice, as he had a long gap before the start of this series. Also, one shouldn't take away credit from the Kiwi bowlers as they
bowled a good line to him.
Don’t rule him out
In the past, he has been castled, but every time Sachin has found a way to bounce back. I will keenly watch him during the England series and I believe the great man of Indian cricket will silence one and all, like the way he has always done.
It was a good victory for India, more so as they were playing Test cricket after a gap. It was also a good warm-up as they have two comparatively stronger teams to deal with at home in the near future.
Don’t rule him out
In the past, he has been castled, but every time Sachin has found a way to bounce back. I will keenly watch him during the England series and I believe the great man of Indian cricket will silence one and all, like the way he has always done.
It was a good victory for India, more so as they were playing Test cricket after a gap. It was also a good warm-up as they have two comparatively stronger teams to deal with at home in the near future.
Bangalore was a superb Test wicket as it had something for everyone --- batters, fast bowlers and even spinners. Such pitches at home will help youngsters hone their skills for conditions all-round.
Man for the future
The men to take note of in the series were Virat Kohli and R Ashwin. Since the Australia tour, Virat has made rapid strides and it is pleasing to see the young man in action. He seems to be maturing fast and is India's man for the future.
He played a knock in both the innings which was responsible for India finishing on top in a good, competitive Test match.
Ashwin showed what a force he can be in domestic conditions. He has the ingredients to develop as a great spinner but has to sharpen his skills to make his mark when India are travelling abroad.
He deserves the kudos but one can't overlook the contribution of Pragyan Ojha. He is someone who can get you wickets and breakthroughs even on good wickets. The duo can form a good, lethal pair in the days to come and should be instrumental in many India wins.
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The writer is a former India
captain and TV commentator