Gordon Greenidge : I don't miss whenever Sachin is playing

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Legendary West Indian opener Gordon Greenidge admires the hunger for runs in Sachin Tendulkar and feels the Indian cricket icon would be batting even if he is on crutches. 

"He could be playing even if he is on crutches. He is the one I would pay to watch," said Greenidge. 

"I don't miss whenever he is playing. I don't follow cricket but when he comes to bat I am glued to TV screen," said the former West Indies opener who made 7558 runs from 108 Tests at 44.72 average and smashed 19 centuries and 34 fifties. 

Greendige also put his mind to comparing the different Indian batsmen of the present era which cricket experts believe is the 'Golden Age' of Indian batting. 

"I admire his (Tendulkar's) craftsmanship. There is artistry in his batting. It's the same with Dravid and Laxman. Sehwag is probably more attacking than all of them but to me, I would prefer Sachin over Sehwag," he said. 

Greenidge and Desmond Haynes formed a formidable opening pair and were one of the prime reasons why West Indies cricket ruled the world cricket for 15 years. 

"My stand with Haynes wasn't a quick-fix success story. We batted well because of the longevity of our association. There was not instant chemistry or anything," revealed Greendige. 

Greenidge and Haynes opened in 148 innings together and scored 6482 runs between them. They had 16 centuries and 26 fifty stands at an average of 47.31 with the highest partnership of 298 runs. It has not been bettered by any other opening pair till date. 

India's Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir have so far put on 3551 runs from 63 innings with 10 century and 19 half century stands at an average of 59.18. 

Greenidge jocularly said he does not keep Haynes number because the latter tried to teach him all the bad things during their cricketing days. 

Greenidge was a devastating opener who believed in taking the leather off a red cricket ball. The Barbadian revealed his attacking style had more to do with his instinct not to hang around. 

"I was probably not good enough to hang around. I had to be flamboyant and dominate the bowlers. If I attacked, it made the bowlers go awry and it further allowed me to plunder runs at ease," he said. 

Greenidge does not feel himself blessed that he did not face the fearsome fast bowling quartet of West Indies of 70s and 80s which terrified the rest of the world. 

"I don't count myself lucky. It's because we faced more of them at the regional level. In first class cricket, they bowled faster to prove a point to each other. 

"It made us face a barrage of quick, short-pitched bowling. But then it probably made us better equipped to play fast bowlers across the globe." 

Greenidge presently is involved with the educational programme of University of Trinidad, trying to put a system in place where the upcoming cricketers are also not losing out on education. 

His one lament is that there is not enough attempt made in the Caribbean to bring all the legends of the game together. 

"We don't have an organisation which unites all the legends of the game. We don't have a common forum to work out what's ailing West Indies cricket," he said. 

"There's no reunion among mates who were together for 15 years, shaping the destiny of West Indian cricket. We meet on and off but we should have a forum where we come together once a year and chalk out a strategy for the betterment of West Indian cricket." 

Sachin Tendulkar prefers not to have a runner

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Runner and water breaks are two subjects that are being debated following the decision by the International Cricket Council not to allow batsman a runner.

Sunil Gavaskar had a caustic response, “I would also like to suggest that there should be no water for bowlers at the boundary end. They bowl one over and come to the boundary where energy drinks are waiting for them”

But two cricket legends offer different but interesting views on drinks interval and runner.The late C.K. Nayudu felt the water break was avoidable and Sachin Tendulkar prefers not to have a runner.

Known to be uncomfortable with the idea of having a runner, Tendulkar, at times, has preferred to bear the pain and run. Why? “Because my runner doesn't know where I am planning to play the ball or even how hard I am going to hit,” said Tendulkar.

VETERAN JOURNALIST REMINISCES

Noted journalist K.V. Gopala Ratnam, a regular contributor to Indian Cricket and Sport & Pastime, said this about the legendary ‘CK': “Water interval was an unnecessary ritual and he (CK) never had a drop himself nor allowed anyone in the team. All these, he contended, disturbed concentration. He told me once: ‘One must enter a cricket field with the same devotion and concentration as one does in entering a temple.”'

In fact, during a match in Delhi, CK's son (CN Nayudu) was out for 95 and the father wanted to know the reason. “Was it lapse of concentration or a water interval?”

Even Gavaskar would remember how an extended drinks break in a one-day match in Sri Lanka cost India dearly. When play resumed, the Indian batting collapsed. On air, Gavaskar had warned against the needlessly-extended drinks break.

BE FAIR

For Abbas Ali Baig, a stylish Test opener, the ruling on runner needed to be fair. “It is fair as long as it keeps the menace of batsmen faking injuries under check. But then there should be come commonality in rules pertaining to substitutes. If there is a substitute for a fielder, why not a runner for a batsman,” asked Baig.

Spin legend Bishan Singh Bedi observed, “It is not about water break. I think water is required because denying it can lead to dehydration. Of course, when we used to practice, our guru would not allow us to drink water because he believed it would come in way of our training. Have a runner but stop the facility from being exploited. Leave it to the umpires.”

Bedi, a former India captain, added, “I never saw Gavaskar with a runner. He was such a brilliant runner between the wickets!”

A former umpire summed it up well. “Don't give a batsman a runner if he is exhausted and can't run. But give him one if he is injured badly and can't run. Allow the fielding captain to nominate who the runner would be. Let cricket remain a simple game.”

I can relate to Sachin Tendulkar in dedication and aggression: Bolt

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Yearning to see Sachin Tendulkar play, Olympic and world champion sprinter Usain Bolt on Tuesday said he can relate to the Indian cricket icon when it comes to dedication and aggression.

Asked about the qualities he admires in Tendulkar, Bolt said, "Tendulkar is obviously dedicated. He is aggressive but calculated and knows how to make runs."

"He (Tendulkar) also plays for the fans ... really similar to what I do," Bolt said.

Tendulkar recently met tennis great Roger Federer during the ongoing Wimbledon Championships in London and Bolt said he would be game for a similar meeting with the Indian.

"I hope to be able to watch him play sometime in future but I don't have any plans to meet him at the moment. He is always welcome to come and watch me run," said the Jamaican triple Olympic and World Championships gold medallist.

Bolt described Tendulkar as one of the greatest cricketers but picked fellow West Indian Vivian Richards as the greatest of all time.

Asked to take his pick among Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Vivian Richards, Garfield Sobers and Shane Warne, Bolt said, "That is a difficult one, they were all great in their time, but I think I would give the edge to Sir Vivian Richards."

Bolt said just like Tendulkar, he also has to deal with the expectations of millions of his fans but the adulation motivates him.

"I use it (pressure of expectation) as a positive. It is nice when so many people are interested in what you do and concerned by the outcome. I find it motivating," said Bolt, the world record holder (9.58secs) in 100m.

Bolt's famous 'bow and arrow' celebration pose was imitated by the Indian cricket team during the recent World Cup and he said he felt honoured.

"It is a great honour when someone else copies my pose. I have seen it in cricket and football and it makes me smile every time," he said.

Bolt explained that his running schedule was the reason he skipped the Commonwealth Games here last year but would look forward to run in India in future.

"The Commonwealth Games could not have been part of my schedule due to the time of year when they were staged. I normally end my season in September, rest in October and then start training in November for the following season. I would like to run in India in the future," he said.

"My coach and agent make all decisions about where I race. We look at the overall picture taking into consideration our major goals. Nobody tries to influence us to run in competitions that are not part of the schedule."

sachin tendulkar birthday : Sachin Tendulkar celebrates birthday with soldiers

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Sachin Tendulkar celebrates birthday with soldiers

Mumbai: Sachin Tendulkar has mostly celebrated his birthdays in a quiet manner and away from the public eye over the years. On the eve of his 38th birthday too, the Little Maestro chose to make the occasion special in his own way by fulfilling the wishes of physically challenged soldiers based in Pune on Friday.

Special on Sachin's 38th Birthday: 

Since his cricketing commitments made it impossible for Tendulkar to meet them personally, he interacted with the soldiers undergoing rehabilitation at the paraplegic centre in Pune's Khadki cantonment via a video-conference which was lively and invoked lots of laughter.

While the jawans asked him several questions, Tendulkar too had a few to ask one of them being, "When you (soldiers) go out on a mission there are no retakes. Where do you get the courage from, especially at times when it is a matter of life and death? To which, the jawans replied, "Whatever we do as soldiers is with the responsibility of serving the nation and when we are at the front it is about that and nothing else matters. One doesn't even think about whether you'll stay alive or not." The answer had Tendulkar moved.

On a lighter note, a jawan asked him about his trips to Dehradun and if the hill station was one of his favourite. Tendulkar said, "I have been there only once but the television channels keep showing the same footage. But it's a very nice place and I loved the long morning walks in solace there."

He was also asked about his love for tennis to which Tendulkar quipped, "For me as a kid the choice was between tennis and cricket and I feel that I didn't make a bad choice. Though, I still love tennis and watch it whenever I get time."

About every kid wanting to play cricket and be like him, Tendulkar emphasized that it was for every parent to allow their children to pursue their interests. "Children have their own choices, they should be encouraged. For the kids, it is important that they pursue their dreams with devotion."

Tendulkar promised to pay a visit to the jawans. "I would like to play table tennis with you and would like to learn to play basketball when I come to meet you," he said.

Tendulkar also cut a cake and exchanged bouquets with the soldiers on camera.

Sachin Tendulkar chooses to walk

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Sachin Tendulkar chooses to walk against Westindies image/photo

CHENNAI: Sachin Tendulkar did not get his 100th ton on Sunday but even his early dismissal was evidence of the integrity with which he has played the game for over two decades.

Against the West Indies on Sunday, Sachin decided to walk off despite being given not out by Australian umpire Steve Davies.

A quarterfinal place had already been sealed, Virender Sehwag was ruled out of the game, yet the MS Chidambaram Stadium was jam-packed an hour before the game started. When India won the toss, the excitement reached its peak, "Will Sachin get his 100th hundred here?"

Kemar Roach was not there and the West Indian attack wore a pedestrian look. The stage was nicely set up for Tendulkar and the 39,000 present at the ground went wild with anticipation when they saw the Little Master walking out to bat. But a Ravi Rampaul delivery in the very first over beat the champion and as the West Indian fielders appealed vociferously, umpire Davies nodded his head in disagreement. There was a sigh of relief in the stands but Tendulkar had other ideas. He turned back and started walking back as a stunned silence descended on the ground.

There have been many Tendulkar hundreds and many dismissals, but this was something out of the ordinary. Not too many players have walked when the stakes have been this high, the last being the legendary Aussie wicketkeeper batsman Adam Gilchrist.

"That is the greatness of the man. But I don't think this is the first time Tendulkar has walked...I have seen him doing it before," former India player WV Raman told TOI. "Sachin has always been a gentleman cricketer and if he believes in something, he will do it," Raman said.

From the various replays that were shown, it was difficult to gauge whether Tendulkar had actually got the nick. With the Hotspot not being in use for the World Cup, it was a possibility that even if the decision was referred, it could have gone in Sachin's favour!

Did Tendulkar forget about that and thought that he would be given out if it was referred? Former international umpire VK Ramaswamy said, "I don't think so. I have seen Tendulkar walking before. He had walked because he was convinced in his mind that he was out. He is an honest cricketer and he always believes in maintaining the spirit of the game."

Sachin, score your 100th ton in Chennai says chairman of selectors Srikkanth

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Chennai: Chairman of selectors Krishnamachari Srikkanth has urged Sachin Tendulkar to score his 100th hundred here.

The M A Chidambaram Stadium which hosts Sunday's India vs West Indies game is one of Tendulkar’s happy hunting grounds. In a career spanning 22 international seasons, some of his most memorable Test knocks were played here.

However, Tendulkar has played just five one-dayer’s here, and is eyeing his maiden century. "This is one of his favourite venues, he always gets a lot of runs here. It would be a memorable moment if he can create history here and score his 100th century. My best wishes, as always, are with him. It'll be the ideal ground to get such a milestone, the city will party for days," Srikkanth, Tendulkar's first India captain, said. "There's something about Sachin and Chepauk. He always seems to play well here. This ground has gone through a lot of renovation, and I am sure he would enjoy entertaining the crowd here. It's easily one of the prettiest venues in the world. The ventilation is excellent and players won't feel exhausted or dehydrated like they used to before. Earlier, it used to get very hot here because of the concrete. But the renovation work has made life simpler for both spectators and players," he added.

Meanwhile, Srikkanth got nostalgic while recalling India's one-run defeat to Australia in the team's opening match of the 1987 World Cup here. Chasing 271, India collapsed from 207-2 to 269 all out. Navjot Singh Sidhu (73) and Srikkanth (70) took the hosts to a position of dominance until quick bowler Craig McDermott wreaked havoc. "It was the victory that gave Australia confidence to go further in the competition. We were clearly the favourites and should have won it hands down. Even though Australia scored 270, we were off to a blazing start. Sidhu and I dominated their bowlers, but we collapsed," said Srikkanth.

"The Aussies had no chance of beating us those days, but somehow they clawed their way back. There is some connection between Chennai and Australia, they always do well here. Dating back to the tied Test in 1986, they have had a love affair with Chennai. It was a great game, a cult classic, and it was after this win, that Allan Border and Co believed they were good enough. And the final result was there for all to see ” they went on to win the World Cup," signed off Srikkanth.

Pakistan openers should learn from Sachin Tendulkar : Wasim Akram

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  Former captain Wasim Akram has called on Pakistani openers to seek inspiration and learn from the exploits of Indian senior batsman Sachin Tendulkar.

Wasim, who is on the World Cup commentary team, also expressed his frustration over Pakistan's performance against Zimbabwe on Monday.

The former fast bowler called on openers, Muhammad Hafeez and Ahmed Shahzad to learn the art of batting and building an innings from Tendulkar.

The two openers have failed to provide a single decent start to the Pakistan team in five matches of the World Cup and Wasim felt both needed to rethink their approach to batting.

"They should learn from Tendulkar, look at him he is 38 plus and yet he is still going strong. He just plays normal cricket in the first ten overs and does not gift his wicket," Akram said.

"Tendulkar is a role model for many others and the Pakistani openers should learn from him how to build an innings and how to tackle dicey conditions. Look at Shahzad he is immensely talented but the moment the ball does a little movement he either starts shuffling across the line or moving in his crease and is gifting his wicket. Hafeez is also getting out constantly shuffling across," he explained.

Wasim said the Pakistani openers need to learn from Tendulkar that even in One-day cricket one needs to build an innings.

"Even if you have scored 50 odds runs in the first 12 or 15 overs and have wickets in hand you are in a good position. And Pakistan's strength is that if they have wickets in hand they can go for quick runs in the final overs," he said.

He pointed out that Tendulkar was still going strong as he stuck to the basics well and didn't try anything extraordinary.

"His hunger for runs is astonishing," Akram told Geo Super channel.

Sachin Tendulkar's 48th century goes in vain

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Sachin tendulkar 48th century video click here
This is the 13th time Sachin's century went in vain.Out of 48 centuries 13 has resulted in loss for India.
Gayle, out of 19 centuries 9 has been resulted in loss for them. 

Sachin Tendulkar 48th ODI century;(hundred) (100) (video):99th century (100)

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Sachin Tendulkar scored his 48th ODI century and 6th World Cup ton against South Africa in Nagpur. Tendulkar hit 111 off 101 which included eight fours and 3 sixes.
Sachin is 47 short off 18000 ODI runs
1 century short of completing that magic 100 centuries overall.


Sachin Tendulkar 48th ODI century;(hundred) (100) (video)

Pieter Seelaar rejoices after getting Sachin's wicket

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Pieter Seelaar rejoices after getting Sachin's wicket

Little-known Dutch spinner Pieter Seelaar made quite an impression with three wickets against India but for him, the most special of the those scalps was undoubtedly the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

India beat the Netherlands by five wickets in a Group B match last night but Seelaar did well for himself by scalping three big names in Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and the big-hitting Yusuf Pathan.

"To get these three wickets is special. Usually you don't bowl to that calibre of player. It gets the best out of you and I think it's a very good experience," Seelaar said after the match.

Asked which one of the three was the biggest for him, pat came the reply, "It's Tendulkar, mate."

"He is the best player in the world. To get his wicket was a very special moment for me and obviously I didn't know what I was doing at that particular moment. I'm very happy with Tendulkar's wicket," he added.

Pieter Seelaar getting Sachin's wicket:video

I am Sachin: Tendulkar introduces himself to blind children

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In a rare sight, Sachin Tendulkar on Friday introduced himself to a bunch of visually impaired children after the Indian cricket team's training session at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

"Hi, I am Sachin," the champion batsman, whose popularity knows no bounds in the cricketing world, said to a group of visually impaired children who came to the stadium to wish luck to Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men ahead of their World Cup match against Ireland on Sunday.

"How old are you?" asked Tendulkar to one of the children. "I am 12 years old," pat came the reply.

"You are 12 years old and you are so strong," Tendulkar said with words of encouragement to the child. 

Sachin Tendulkar says no to honorary doctorate by a Bangalore university

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LIVE CRICKET CLICK HERE

BANGALORE: In a rare sight, Sachin Tendulkaron Friday introduced himself to a bunch of visually impaired children after the Indian cricket team's training session at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

"Hi, I am Sachin," the champion batsman, whose popularity knows no bounds in the cricketing world, said to a group of visually impaired children who came to the stadium to wish luck to Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men ahead of their World Cup match against Ireland on Sunday.

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar promises more aggression this World Cup(2011)

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As he opens the door to room number 2033 at the ITC Royal Gardenia hotel in Bangalore, the demigod who resides in it apologises for the mess inside. It is instantly evident that Sachin Tendulkar is every bit the unassuming man the world knows him to be.

“These guys are crazy,” Sachin Tendulkar says softly, referring to his mates in blue who are now often talking about winning the cup for him. “They just talk about gifting me something.”
The nation wants to win this World Cup — but this time, unlike his five earlier campaigns, they want it as much for him as they want it for themselves. Surely, this is Sachin’s last chance.
He doesn’t want to exaggerate his importance in India .s World Cup campaign, but the more he avoids talk on it, the more it returns to haunt him. “I just want to go out there and play. The rest is,” he looks up as if there is someone else who decides.
And through his gestures he makes it obvious that he just can’t wait to take it on.
Sachin Tendulkar tries an aggressive pose for the camera, but gives up. “It is all inside. It will come out when I am facing the ball,” he says thumping his chest. “You will definitely see a lot of aggression during this edition.”
If that statement is a hint of his strategy for the next 40-odd days, it will rouse the expectant nation that has only now, finally come to grips with his recent measured, cut-out-the-risks approach.
Could he go back to his old, swashbuckling ways?
“Sachin’s aggression will be crucial to India’s fortune this time,” says former all-rounder Mohinder Amarnath

Sachin Tendulkar 47th ODI century;(hundred) (100) (video)

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Sachin Tendulkar hits his 47th ODI hundred,98 international and 5th in world cup..

ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 Opening Ceremony Live Streaming on February 17th 2011

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ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 Opening Ceremony will take place at Dhaka, Bangladesh on Thursday, February 17th 2011 and the opening cricket match will also be held on Saturday, February 19th 2011 between India vs Bangladesh.

Cricket World Cup 2011 Opening Ceremony Live Streaming

DHAKA Feb 17 (Reuters) - Bangladeshis cast aside their usual docile and reserved image on Thursday and proudly displayed their sporting passion ahead of the gala opening ceremony of the Cricket World Cup later in the capital.

The $30 million jamboree, jointly organised by the International Cricket Conference (ICC) and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), will be opened by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Bangabandhu National Stadium.

Unusually for the often chaotic and jam-packed Dhaka roads, traffic was relatively light with the government declaring Thursday a half-day public holiday so its people could watch the opening ceremony.

It is the first time the country, which is slowly making a mark in world one-day cricket if not the five-day test version, has helped stage the showpiece event which will last from Feb 19 to April 2.

The country, whose population of more than 160 million has suffered more than its fair share of natural disasters, is jointly hosting with India and Sri Lanka and thoroughly enjoying its rare moment in the sporting spotlight.

"We will be able to improve our image if we can successfully hold the opening ceremony and host the World Cup matches slated for us," Mostafa Kamal, president of Bangladesh Cricket Board, told reporters.

Bangladesh will stage the tournament's opening match between India and Bangladesh at Shere Bangla National Stadium in the Mirpur area of Dhaka on Saturday.

Bryan Adams to perform at 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup opening ceremony

Bryan Guy Adams shortly Bryan Adams will be attend on ICC world cup opening ceremony, 2011. It is confirmed by one of his associate. This ICC world Cup 2011 will be arrange with a simultaneous programs. Opening ceremony of ICC world cup cricket 2011 venue is Bangabandhu National Cricket Stadium and day is 17th February. Tickets of world cup cricket will be available from 10th February. To know about tickets of ICC world cup 2011 click here.We are coming to the world biggest event of the year of 2011 is the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011. Here Pop star Bryan Adams will scheduled to perform at the ICC world cup 2011 opening ceremony on February 17, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Cricket fans all over the world will waiting to watch and enjoy Bryan Adams’ performance on the opening ceremony of the World Cup 2011.Bryan Adams, who was always been part of the opening ceremony of the Cricket World Cup 2011.Sources close to the Canadian singer have confirmed the news and an official announcement is expected in next few days.

World Cup Cricket 2011 Prize Money

ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 Prize Money, ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 Prize Money Amount, 2011 Cricket World Cup Price Money, World Cup Cricket 2011 Prize Money.

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 champion cricket team would be taking home prize money of US$ 4 million, with the ICC (International Cricket Council) may have to double the total share for the coveted tournament to US$ 10 million. The conclusion was obtained at the International Cricket Council (ICC )Board meeting which was held in Dubai on April 20, 2010.

Sachin's presence will lift team says Dhoni

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Sachin Tendulkar's mere presence in the dressing room is enough to lift the morale of the players, feels India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni. 

Dhoni also urged the other players in the team to perform and take the pressure off the champion batsman. 

"When Sachin is with the team, the morale of the players is very high. But it is not right to put pressure on him. All the players should perform and take the pressure off him," said Dhoni. 

The India skipper reiterated that the team would like to win the forthcoming World Cup for Tendulkar, who will, in all probability, be playing for the last time in cricket's biggest event. 

"Team India wants to give (this) World Cup to Sachin as a gift," he said during the inauguration of the T20 Jharkhand Premier League (JPL) here on Friday. 

In a lighter vein, Dhoni said that he wants the 37-year-old Tendulkar to play in a few more World Cups. "God willing, Sachin can play in another three or four World Cups. If it happens the whole team will be happy," he said. 

Asked about the team's preparations for the mega event, he said, "the team is ready for the World Cup, focusing on fitness and fielding." 

Dhoni also recollected the historic moment when Tendulkar notched up his 50th Test century. 

"It was a treat to watch him standing from the other end," he said. 

On Eden Gardens missing out on the India-England tie, he said he would miss the crowd and the atmosphere there. 

I hope India win the WC for Sachin: Ojha

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With World Cup Trophy being the missing feather from Sachin Tendulkar's dazzling cap, left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha hopes that the tournament favourites India will do it this time as a special tribute to the milestone man.

For 37-year-old Tendulkar, who has scored more than 32,000 runs and 97 centuries in international cricket, it will be in all probability his last chance to lift the Cup.

"I will follow the Indian side. My best wishes are with the team. I hope we win the Cup for Sachin paji. I pray that we do it for him. His contribution to Indian cricket is immense, with World Cup being the only missing feather from his cap," the Hyderabad spinner told PTI from Visakhapatnam.

"What can I say more about the great Sachin Tendulkar. Anything said or written about him will be very less. I will keep it with that," added Ojha, who could not make it to the 15-member World Cup squad and is currently playing in the Duleep Trophy final between North Zone and South Zone.

Emphasising that India are the firm favourites to win the trophy, the South Zone spinner said, "We are the favourites and well prepared for the tournament. We have an excellent side with the likes of Dhoni bhai, Yuvi bhai, Bhajji paji, Yusuf, Raina, and others, who can change the course of the game at any point of time.

"We have got a lot of match-winners in the side. We have some outstanding cricketers and we would not have to depend on anyone in particular. The whole team is like a force. We have a great chance to win the World Cup," said the 24-year-old, adding that playing at home would also be a big advantage.

Ojha said Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Co are experienced enough to tackle the pressure situation.

"Cricket is religion in India and everyone will be following the matches. But we have matured cricketers who have been playing for quite a long time now. Everyone in the team is smart enough to tackle these pressures."

Speaking about the four-time World champions Australia, Ojha warned that the Aussies could not taken for granted despite their loss of form in the recent past.

"Australia are one of the strong contenders. They always fight back and they do it with ease, which makes them one of the title favourites," said Ojha.

He, however, added that most of the teams in this World Cup are going to be very competitive.

"Every game will be important. Sri Lanka, Australia, South Africa and Pakistan, all know the conditions well. They have good spinners who can be really effective in this tournament."

Meanwhile, praising skipper Dhoni, Ojha said: "From personal point of view, I feel he gives you freedom and space to perform. He backs you up and gets the best out of you.

That's why he is so successful."

He further added that Dhoni and coach Gary Kirsten compliment each other well.

"He (Kirsten) is an outstanding coach. It's really nice to have him on board. He understands the players well, takes their feedback. I played under his coaching and he has been great." 

WC win will be the best gift to Sachin: Dhoni

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As Sachin Tendulkar gears up to play probably his last World Cup, the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Indian cricket team is desperate to make it a special one for him by gifting the champion batsman the trophy which has eluded the side for 28 years. 

In his two-decade long illustrious career, during which he has featured in five World Cups since 1992, Tendulkar has virtually every batting record under his belt but a world title is the only trophy which is missing from his cupboard. 

And Dhoni said his team will do whatever it takes to make it a memorable tournament for Tendulkar, who is approaching 38. 

"We all love him (Tendulkar) a lot. Most probably it is his last World Cup although we all want him to play many more World Cups. But practically speaking it seems impossible," Dhoni told reporters during a promotional event. 

"So, that (the World Cup trophy) can be the biggest gift from the team to him," he said. 

"We believe in each others' talent and we have a very good team. The environment in the dressing room is very good. And if we perform to our potential we have a very good chance of winning (the World Cup)," Dhoni added. 

Dhoni termed the 2007 inaugural World Twenty20 title in South Africa as the biggest achievement of his captaincy career so far, but refused to make any predictions for the upcoming mega-event. 

"It (World Twenty20 title) is the most memorable moment of my career since I made my debut in 2004 and it will always be there up in the league. 

"But I don't want to make any predictions for the (ODI) World Cup. I can only assure all that we will give our best. We play one game at a time. So at present I am just thinking about the Bangladesh game (on February 19 in Dhaka)," he said. 

Dhoni also hailed the format of this year's World Cup and said it is a welcome change from the 2007 edition. 

In this year's World Cup, 14 teams are divided into two groups of seven from where top four from each group will qualify for the quarterfinals unlike the 2007 edition, where 16 teams first competed in a pool stage, then a "super 8" stage, followed by semifinals and a final. 

"It is a good format for us. It is a bit of relief from 2007. Here even if you lose a few games you have a chance to get into the quarterfinals," Dhoni said. 

"But it will be about playing consistent cricket. Whoever plays consistent cricket in the tournament will get into the knockout stage," he added. 

Four years ago in the West Indies, weighed down by the pressure of expectations, India crashed out of the World Cup at the preliminary stage but Dhoni insisted that the present outfit is well prepared to handle the burden in the upcoming event. 

"Now we call pressure added responsibility. We know the expectation level is high but we are prepared for it because we knew for long that the World Cup will be held in India. Expectations is something which is beyond our control," Dhoni said. 

The Indian skipper was also satisfied with the 15 players he has got for the tournament. 

"I am really happy with the squad. I know I am the lone wicket-keeper in the team but it is not a worrying factor. If anything major happens to me, we can always bring in the reserve wicket-keeper as it is happening in India. But one wicket-keeper gives us the liberty of having one more variation in the side," Dhoni said. 

"We also have variety in our bowling department. We have not got express fast bowlers but we have got decent bowlers who are very skillful," he said. 

Dhoni differed with England batsman Kevin Pietersen, who criticised the scheduling of the World Cup for having long gaps between matches. 

"It is difficult to get a perfect schedule but I am quite happy with the schedule. Some of our players have got a few niggles and the gap will help them to recover," Dhoni said. 

With the controversial Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS) to be implemented in the tournament from the last eight round, the Indian captain said the teams will have to do their homework on the subject. 

"We have done our background check although we have not used it (UDRS). It's not that every team will be pleased with the system at the end of the day but we need to do our homework right," Dhoni said. 

Dhoni also expressed his disappointment at not playing at the Eden Gardens where the hosts were scheduled to take on England on February 27. The fixture has been shifted to Bangalore because of Eden's unpreparedness. 

"Playing in the Eden Gardens before one lakh people is always special. We will miss the passionate Kolkata crowd but it is out of our control," he said. 

Sachin Tendulkar statistics at World Cup

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Sachin at World Cups 

1992: Still only 18, Tendulkar came to grips quickly on the bouncy surfaces of Australia. He won the man-of-the-match award in back-to-back games against Pakistan and Zimbabwe in winning causes.

M: 8; Runs; 283; Hs: 84; Avg: 47.16; 50s: 3

1996: At the peak of his powers, Tendulkar mastered most bowling attacks and led the team to the semis. His counter-attacking 90 against Australia and his ton at the Kotla against Sri Lanka were absolute gems. Finished as top-run-getter.
M: 7; Runs: 523; Hs: 137; Avg: 87.16; 100s: 2; 50s: 3

1999: Came to the tournament after a lengthy injury lay-off and had to rush to India after the first match against India after his father died. He scored a hundred on return against Kenya, but wasn't his fluent self.
M: 7; Runs: 253; Hs: 140*; Avg: 42.16; 100s: 1; 50s: 0

2003: With his opening spot restored, was at his very best. His knocks against Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka were the highpoints of the edition.
M: 11; Runs: 673; Hs: 152; Avg: 61.18; 100s: 1; 50s: 6

2007: Scored a scorching 50 against Bermuda, but looked insecure and scratchy at No. 4.
M: 3; Runs: 64; Hs: 57*; Avg: 32; 50s: 1


2011 : M:5; Runs : 324; Hs: 120; Avg.: 64.80; 100s : 2; 50s : 0

Total: M: 41; Runs: 2120; Hs: 152; Avg: 58.89; 100s:6; 50s: 13.

2011 could be Tendulkar's World Cup

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"Mushy, bas ye ek hi wicket hai," bellowed Pakistan's combative wicket-keeper Moin Khan as Sachin Tendulkar arrived at the crease in the World Cup clash at Sydney in 1992. Despite the presence of other stalwarts in the team, Moin felt it prudent to alert leggie Mushtaq Ahmed about the benefits Pakistan would reap if they dismiss the then 18-year-old Tendulkar early. That Pakistan couldn't and Tendulkar scored a match-winning 54, is mere statistic. What was more revealing was the attention he commanded even at such a young age.

Circa Centurion 2003, a raging Tendulkar was making a mockery of a sizeable target of 274 and a potent Pakistan bowling attack, en route to a regal 98. The knock wasn't without alarms though. While on 46, Akram deceived Tendulkar with a slower ball and the batsman checked his drive butAbdul Razzaq at mid-off jumped too late and dropped the catch. "B*****d, tereko pata hai batsmen kaun hai," was Akram's furious response to Razzaq.

Twelve years and three World Cups later, Tendulkar remained the man to get.

After graduating from a middle-order batsman to opening in ODIs, he was breaking records out of habit and had become the biggest scalp for bowlers and India's pulse. A Tendulkar ton had the potential to prompt even the most corrupt babu to work without accepting a bribe!

His legend though had started to gain root just before the 1996 World Cup came to the sub-continent for the second time. Tendulkar had just signed a $10million deal with World Tel. In the World Cup, he justified the hype and the billing, scoring the tournament's highest run tally (523 runs in 7 matches).

India's dependence on him was growing. And no where was it more prominent than in the semifinals .

Till he was at the crease, the Eden Gardens pitch appeared docile. The moment he fell for 65, the pitch metamorphosed into a minefield where every Sri Lankan bowler appeared to be hurling a bomb and India crashed out.

As the 1999 edition in England drew closer, Tendulkar had gone past Desmond Haynes' record for most centuries in ODIs. He had had by far his best year in international cricket (1998). He had gained and lost captaincy and had been introduced to injuries. An attacking and talented opening partner, Sourav Ganguly, had been unearthed along with a solid middle-order batsman in Rahul Dravid. The team's over-reliance on Tendulkar though remained a constant. But he failed to get going, barring the game against Kenya where he scored an emotional century after his father's death. Not surprisingly, India exited at the Super Six stage.

After another failed dalliance with captaincy post the World Cup, his game blossomed under the John Wright-Ganguly regime.

Success chased India and Tendulkar in the West Indies and England, but just months before the 2003 World Cup, a disastrous tour of New Zealand followed.

With Dravid being asked to keep wickets and acting as a finisher along with Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag finding his feet as ODI opener, Tendulkar was asked to bat at No. 4. Although he scored runs there, he was happier at the top. Post India's loss to a second-string South African side in a warm-up game, coach Wright sought a one-on-one with Tendulkar and restored his opening spot. The Kiwi realized that a happy Tendulkar was key to India's fortunes.

Tendulkar's massive stature prompted the team management to request him to address the nation prior to the match against Zimbabwe at Harare after fans attacked players' homes and families following India's humiliating defeat against Australia in the group stage at Centurion.

His reassuring words calmed them and India's campaign was up and running. Tendulkar ended the World Cup with a mammoth 673 runs and pocketed the man-of-the-series award.

In the Chappell era, insecurity and injuries didn't get the best out of the legend and the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies proved to be a shambolic campaign.

But the pieces have been put together now. The Master, now semi-retired from the ODI game, picks and chooses his tournaments. New strokes have been added and every move he makes is with keeping in mind the World Cup.

To achieve that, he's changed a few things. The crouched stance has given way to a more upright one, easing the pressure on his back. He doesn't play pre-meditated shots. While batting in the powerplays there is no more the reluctance to play lofted strokes, an affliction he suffered from between 2005 to 2007. His bat too appears lighter and that could be a reason why he is playing more horizontal bat strokes.

2011 could be Tendulkar's World Cup. Yes, India as hosts will be under pressure and the media will keep gloating over the fact that he is close to a hundred international hundreds. But hasn't Tendulkar lived his entire life meeting expectations?