E-Paper
Lull before the Tendulkar storm
He would soon have the most Test runs and centuries more than anyone else in history, writes Sir Vivian Richards.
I can sense Sachin Tendulkar is causing concern in India. Millions in their homes or offices, classrooms or playgrounds, in beds or little gathering of friends, want to know if he is fit for Pakistan.
There is less sympathy for his tennis elbow and more disapproval on how he has gone about it. All questions on technique and temperament, style and method are shot at him.
The revisionists are questioning his place in history.
Injuries you can never tell. The years logged on are reflected in a weary frame. Much as we hope against, we still age. A quick-fix and the show moves on.
There is no sense in blaming Tendulkar if he rushed his return in order to feast on Bangladesh. He couldn't have done it without encouragement from doctors. I am in his corner.
It is stupid to blame his heavy bat or bottom-hand grip for his distress. I mean, he would soon have the most Test runs and centuries more than anyone else in history. All those one-day hundreds. He can't bat with two more hands.
Rubbish, utter rubbish. Give me a break.
There is still more whining: he is no longer dominant.
But people change, experience factor gets in. If that's the way he sees it, that's the way it is. Sometimes you can't any longer do those things. Body is not in the best of shape. It doesn't listen to your mind.
Having been a cricketer, let me sense this young man's mind: Oh, I am injured now, let me lay off for a while, recover and then produce the same passion and freedom. Play on while I recover and then bring on the magic.
It could well be the lull before the Tendulkar storm.
You then moan that he is not a good finisher of matches, like Brian Lara has been at times, and hasn't won India many games.
But then Tendulkar handled the pressure when it was most required in the course of a match. He can't do much if your fast bowlers lack firepower. I have always felt India has been lacking in this department.
