My runs come thru sheer practice - Sachin

Colombo: On the morning of February 7, Sachin Tendulkar decided he would have a session at the nets. Practice was optional on that morning. But as Sachin wished, there were three more cricketers in the bus - Irfan Pathan, Laxmipathy Balaji and Ravindra Jadeja.

The batting legend batted for 55 minutes then took a seven-minute drinks break. This was followed by coach Gary Kirsten throwing balls at him for almost 40 minutes.

Tendulkar also found time to tell Balaji how to use the good length spot more effectively, bowl to Pathan with the pads on, and show a young Sri Lankan leg-spinner how to get better turn by flexing the wrist.

Tendulkar's energy and enthusiasm for the game has not dipped after almost two decades. He spoke to Gulf News about his passion.


Gulf News: Why does the number one batsman in Tests and one-dayers need to practice intensely even on holidays?

Sachin Tendulkar: The runs I have scored have come through sheer practice. I try to reach perfection through practice. Whatever runs I have scored are immaterial at the start of every innings. I have to start from zero when I take guard. It's part of an athlete's job to keep oneself ready.

Muttiah Muralitharan says that he feels like a Sachin Tendulkar!

Well, he has proved that he is the best in both forms of the game. His determination, dedication, discipline and ability to fight against all odds is phenomenal. After all these years, he still picks wickets at will.

Are you happy with the Mumbai Indians acquiring JP Duminy for the second edition of the IPL?

It is great news. We were looking for a solid middle-order batsman. Duminy fulfils thay role.

Will Duminy bat at number three?

I am yet to finalise it. Sanath and I will be opening - that's certain. Duminy, most probably, will come in either at four or five. We will be flexible and decide only after seeing the wicket.

You also have Asraful of Bangladesh. Was it part of your plan?

Oh yes! I have seen him winning matches for Bangladesh single-handedly. He was very much part of our planning.

Are you happy with the overall team combination?

Yes, very happy. We have acquired some capable players and it is a good team.