Tendulkar is a genius, says Lara

The WI skipper says Sachin's classic ton after a long layoff proves his class.Congratulate Tendulkar on his 40th century

Brian Lara paid tribute to Sachin Tendulkar's "genius" after the master blaster's superb unbeaten 141 in his first match in six months since a shoulder injury.

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Lara, himself one of the best batsmen the world has seen, watched in awe as Tendulkar hit 13 fours and five sixes on Thursday to carry his bat for only the second time in the 364 ODIs of his career.

"I think it was a very good pitch other than a small ridge. I think that spoilt it of course. But taking that into consideration Tendulkar played a magnificent innings on such a surface," said the West Indian captain.

"For a guy coming back after six months, it showed how much of a genius he is. We just had to watch him and appreciate him. It was a very special innings by him."

The 33-year-old had been out since March after surgery but proved he has fully recovered and lost none of his winning instincts in a major boost for India ahead of the Champions Trophy next month.

It was his 40th ODI century - a world record, but was not enough to save his side that lost to the West Indians by 29 runs on the Duckworth/Lewis method in their rain-hit DLF Cup match.

Nevertheless, the right-hander was buoyed by the way he played.

"It was a very special 100. It was made on a difficult track and I am very happy with it. Everything clicked," said Tendulkar, who has scored more runs than anyone else in the one-day game - 14,289 at an average of over 44.

"It has been a challenge because I am coming out of a serious injury. I had a couple of surgeries but you have just (got to) keep fighting and try to be mentally strong.

"I've been able to do that and I'm happy with that."

Tendulkar's injury forced him to skip seven one-dayers at home against England and their tour of the West Indies.