I'm going through the best phase of my career: Sachin

When former England captain Nasser Hussain said that “watching Sachin Tendulkar is an education,” he not only meant Tendulk ar’s conduct on the field but also off it. Despite 19 years in the international circuit and nothing left to prove, Tendulkar still retains his hunger for the game. His dignified conduct, scandalfree personal life, success in his chosen field, respect for fellow players and elders makes him a role model for every Indian.

Seeing the way he trains with the Indian and Mumbai teams, no one would say he is 35-plus.

In his interaction with the media on Wednesday, the batsman put to rest speculation about his future by saying that he was going through one of the best phases of his career and wish ed to continue in the same vein. He asserted that India was on the right track to become the No 1 side in the world.

The highest run-getter in Tests maintained that the five-day form of the game was the ultimate test and T20s could not kill it. He pointed out that success had not come to him overnight — hard wo rk, discipline and God’s grace had helped him reach this far. Excerpts:

How do you retain your schoolboyish charm?

I have always enjoyed playing the game. Everything else happens ar ound that. When I am enjoying myself, you see it — there’s nothing more to it.

What has been your motivation over the years?

The motivation is to do well for the country. I am part of a team and want to contribute each time I walk in — that keeps me going. Motivation and performance are interli nked. The bottomline for me is to enjoy the game.

What is the secret of your longevity in the game?

It’s a package deal. There are certain things you have to follow in life. It is not only about going out there and batting — you have to lead a di sci p lined life, you have to practise properly.

Work-outs, gym sessions... all these are important, It is nice that I have been able to play for such a long time. God has been kind.

When you started your international career, the team didn’t ha ve a coach. BS Bedi was the first, many have followed.

We have had coaches, but they have been changed frequently. It takes time for a coach to understand a team and work on it.

Define an ideal coach.

It is important for a coach to understand what is wanted of him. I believe that the coach’s job is to relieve any player of pressure and send him out saying he is the best. You have to give players confidence. If the coach can do that, he is a successful coach.

Centuries against Australia and England, series wins against th e se teams. Your plans for India’s next tour?

I am quite pleased with the way thi ngs have gone. The New Zealand tour is still a couple of months aw ay. When we get closer to it, we will start our preparations. It is going to be a challenging tour.

South Africa has done well against Oz.

South Africa is a very good team, one of the teams to beat. I would put England and Australia in the same league.

From Krish Srikkanth to MS Dh oni, you have played under se veral captains. How would you assess them?

Each captain has a different style, just like each coach has a different method. I have played under many captains, but as far as Dhoni is concerned, he is calm and composed, that is his strength. He doesn’t get ruffled and that is a great sign. He has done a fantastic job and that is there for all of us to see. He has a bright future.

He carries the hopes of millions of people who want the skipper and Indian team to scale greater heights.

How have India’s pacers contributed to the team’s success?

Our success is based on all-round performances.

Our pacers have given us early breakthroughs and then the spinners have struck.

The batsmen have chipped and there have been some good catches and crucial run-outs in the field. It is a combination of all these things that has helped us to win matches.

Will T20 kill Test cricket?

No way. I don’t’ think that is ever going to happen.

Test cricket will always be special and right at the top. People will enjoy limited-over versions but Test cricket will retain its position.

How can Tests be preserved?

I don’t think Test cricket is threaten ed by T20, though people enjoy the shortest form of the game. Test matches too are exciting.

Are you planning to strengthen the Mumbai Indians team?

I can’t discuss that now.

Any unfulfilled ambitions?

Nothing like that. I have been able to play for 19 years. How many are fortunate to play that long? I look at it that way. I also look at things that I have been able to achieve and thank God for his kindness.