Indian cricket great Sachin Tendulkar has filed a civil lawsuit against an Australian bat manufacturer, accusing it of using his name and image to promote products and then failing to pay him $2 million in royalties.

In Federal Court papers filed this month and reviewed by Reuters, Tendulkar said Sydney-based Spartan Sports International agreed in 2016 to pay him at least $1 million a year to use his image, logo and promotional services to sell "Sachin by Spartan" sporting goods and clothing.

The retired star batsman soon went to work promoting the products and appeared at a range of promotional events in places such as London and the Indian financial hub of Mumbai, the documents showed.

However, by September 2018, Spartan had failed to make a single payment owed, Tendulkar said, and he made a formal request for payment. When none came, he ended the agreement, asking the company to stop using his name and likeness.

Yet Spartan continued to do so, according to the documents.

Spartan, whose legal representative was not listed on the Federal Court website, did not respond to an email request from Reuters for comment.

Les Galbraith, listed by the court documents as its chief operating officer, did not respond to a private message sent to his LinkedIn page.

The law firm listed as representing <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj1o_P0uOjiAhWMrY8KHaW6DJAQFjAFegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2gP2IYu1HE5SrmHYk2Xghp">Sachin Tendulkar</a>, Gilbert + Tobin, declined comment.

Tendulkar's civil claim accused the Australian company of misleading or deceptive conduct, "passing off", or suggesting an official endorsement when none existed, and breach of contract. It did not say what damages were sought.

Tendulkar became the world's leading run-scorer in tests and one-day internationals, with more than 34,000 runs and 100 centuries, in a 24-year career that ended in 2013.

In 2012, he was made an honorary member of the Order of Australia, one of the country's highest civil awards.

The court website showed the lawsuit was filed on June 5, with the first court date in Sydney on June 26.

Indian cricket great Sachin Tendulkar has filed a civil lawsuit against an Australian bat manufacturer, accusing it of using his name and image to promote products and then failing to pay him $2 million in royalties.

Indian cricket great Sachin Tendulkar has filed a civil lawsuit against an Australian bat manufacturer, accusing it of using his name and image to promote products and then failing to pay him $2 million in royalties. In Federal Court papers filed this month and reviewed by Reuters, Tendulkar said Sydney-based Spartan Sports International agreed in 2016 to pay him at least $1 million a year to use his image, logo and promotional services to sell "Sachin by Spartan" sporting goods and clothing. The retired star batsman soon went to work promoting the products and appeared at a range of promotional events in places such as London and the Indian financial hub of Mumbai, the documents showed. However, by September 2018, Spartan had failed to make a single payment owed, Tendulkar said, and he made a formal request for payment. When none came, he ended the agreement, asking the company to stop using his name and likeness. Yet Spartan continued to do so, according to the documents. Spartan, whose legal representative was not listed on the Federal Court website, did not respond to an email request from Reuters for comment. Les Galbraith, listed by the court documents as its chief operating officer, did not respond to a private message sent to his LinkedIn page. The law firm listed as representing Sachin Tendulkar, Gilbert + Tobin, declined comment. Tendulkar's civil claim accused the Australian company of misleading or deceptive conduct, "passing off", or suggesting an official endorsement when none existed, and breach of contract. It did not say what damages were sought. Tendulkar became the world's leading run-scorer in tests and one-day internationals, with more than 34,000 runs and 100 centuries, in a 24-year career that ended in 2013. In 2012, he was made an honorary member of the Order of Australia, one of the country's highest civil awards. The court website showed the lawsuit was filed on June 5, with the first court date in Sydney on June 26.

Sachin Tendulkar sues Australian cricket bat maker Spartan for over $2 million in royalties

Cricket legend <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-ethics-officer-dismisses-conflict-of-interest-charge-against-sachin-tendulkar-222194&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip-IPe1MLiAhUSfSsKHdG9B60QFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vhevCGHXTyPprW2BV34tb">Sachin Tendulkar</a> will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom.

The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa.

Tendulkar joins an illustrious panel of experts in the pre-show on Star Sports.

He will have his own segment 'Sachin Opens Again'.

Tendulkar has scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup that he has appeared in.&nbsp;

The 46-year-old, who has represented India in six World Cups, holds the record for scoring the highest number of runs in a single edition of the World Cup, scoring 673 in 2003.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip-IPe1MLiAhUSfSsKHdG9B60QFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Ip3bPE-mYlXaNowbhJCwR">Tendulkar </a>scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup he played.&nbsp;

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f1057d2-a373-4e54-9713-00b99df3a6c7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_8.jpg" />
India opens its campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom. The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom. The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa. Tendulkar joins an illustrious panel of experts in the pre-show on Star Sports. He will have his own segment 'Sachin Opens Again'. Tendulkar has scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup that he has appeared in. The 46-year-old, who has represented India in six World Cups, holds the record for scoring the highest number of runs in a single edition of the World Cup, scoring 673 in 2003. Tendulkar scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup he played. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India opens its campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

'Sachin Opens Again' at the World Cup, this time as a commentator

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a>.

A left-right batting competition is of significant value in modern one-day internationals but two-time champions India&nbsp;have only one frontline southpaw in opener Shikhar Dhawan.

Spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could make that two if he is picked in the playing side, but Tendulkar is confident the team have enough firepower to overcome the shortage of left-handed batsmen.

"Ideally left-right combination is something which disturbs the bowler's line and length and also the captain has to readjust his fielding," Tendulkar, 46, said in an interview ahead of the World Cup, which starts in England on Thursday.

"But if you have good quality batters, which we do, then it really doesn't matter whether it is a left-hand right-hand combination. We have some solid batters who can deliver the punch."

With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the 1983 and 2011 champions have a top order the rival of any in the game.

But they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, with KL Rahul the favourite to fill the position after his century in Tuesday's practice match against Bangladesh.

Following next in the batting order will be veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup.

India's 2011 World Cup winning captain is considered the best finisher in contemporary cricket and his inputs from behind the stumps would be as important, said Tendulkar.

"It's important that someone who's standing behind the wickets has played for such a long time and has also led India and is in the best possible position to figure out what's happening off the surface," Tendulkar said.

"Whether the ball is stopping, bouncing, or skidding, whatever it is, he knows exactly how the ball is coming and he knows where the gaps are and how to close those gaps. His contribution and inputs are always going to be important.

"Other keepers also try and do the same thing but MS's experience is going to count a lot."

India boast of world's top-ranked ODI bowler in quick Jasprit Bumrah while wristspinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal also feature in the top 10.

Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer to score 100 centuries across formats, played six consecutive World Cups from 1992 and holds the records for most runs and centuries in the tournament's history.

He is confident India have a "complete" bowling attack to win their third 50-over title.

"We have someone like Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) who swings the ball, (Mohammed) Shami who is skiddy off the pitch, Bumrah who is the number one bowler in the world in this format," said Tendulkar, a member of India's 2011 World Cup triumph at home.

"We have someone like Chahal and Kuldeep who are wristspinners. So there is variety also in the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja can keep things tight.

"And we have supporting bowlers in Hardik (Pandya), Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav. So all in all a well-balanced bowling attack I would say."

2019 Edition

The World Cup returns to the 10-team format to maintain quality of the competition after featuring 14 in each of the last two editions.

The decision was criticised by former players and associate nations, who are upset at being denied the chance to rub shoulders with the top sides of the world.

"Ideally if it's called the World Cup then the world should be participating. We need to find ways to engage more teams yet keep that standard of playing high," Tendulkar said.

"It's not going to happen overnight. We need to find ways to do that. I will love to see more than 10 teams participating but also at the same time not compromise on the standard of playing.

"It's going to be a lengthy process. Lesser teams should get more exposure to get ready for big tournaments."

India suffered the ignominy of being eliminated in the opening round of the tournament in 2007 while 2019 hosts England met the same fate last time the showpiece event was held in Australia and New Zealand four years back.

But this year's format -- which will see all teams playing each other with the top four advancing to the semi-finals -- will ensure teams have a shot at redemption, according to Tendulkar.

"This format still gives you a chance to come back. You are not out even before you wake up," Tendulkar said.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd483eb7-56fe-42b5-9175-3d50880474cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_6.jpg" />
"Sometimes it can be harsh. Since this is the World Cup, one would want to get another chance. If it's a bad day then you have time to recover and this format allows you to recover."

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the World Cup.

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the World Cup. A left-right batting competition is of significant value in modern one-day internationals but two-time champions India have only one frontline southpaw in opener Shikhar Dhawan. Spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could make that two if he is picked in the playing side, but Tendulkar is confident the team have enough firepower to overcome the shortage of left-handed batsmen. "Ideally left-right combination is something which disturbs the bowler's line and length and also the captain has to readjust his fielding," Tendulkar, 46, said in an interview ahead of the World Cup, which starts in England on Thursday. "But if you have good quality batters, which we do, then it really doesn't matter whether it is a left-hand right-hand combination. We have some solid batters who can deliver the punch." With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the 1983 and 2011 champions have a top order the rival of any in the game. But they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, with KL Rahul the favourite to fill the position after his century in Tuesday's practice match against Bangladesh. Following next in the batting order will be veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup. India's 2011 World Cup winning captain is considered the best finisher in contemporary cricket and his inputs from behind the stumps would be as important, said Tendulkar. "It's important that someone who's standing behind the wickets has played for such a long time and has also led India and is in the best possible position to figure out what's happening off the surface," Tendulkar said. "Whether the ball is stopping, bouncing, or skidding, whatever it is, he knows exactly how the ball is coming and he knows where the gaps are and how to close those gaps. His contribution and inputs are always going to be important. "Other keepers also try and do the same thing but MS's experience is going to count a lot." India boast of world's top-ranked ODI bowler in quick Jasprit Bumrah while wristspinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal also feature in the top 10. Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer to score 100 centuries across formats, played six consecutive World Cups from 1992 and holds the records for most runs and centuries in the tournament's history. He is confident India have a "complete" bowling attack to win their third 50-over title. "We have someone like Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) who swings the ball, (Mohammed) Shami who is skiddy off the pitch, Bumrah who is the number one bowler in the world in this format," said Tendulkar, a member of India's 2011 World Cup triumph at home. "We have someone like Chahal and Kuldeep who are wristspinners. So there is variety also in the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja can keep things tight. "And we have supporting bowlers in Hardik (Pandya), Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav. So all in all a well-balanced bowling attack I would say." 2019 Edition The World Cup returns to the 10-team format to maintain quality of the competition after featuring 14 in each of the last two editions. The decision was criticised by former players and associate nations, who are upset at being denied the chance to rub shoulders with the top sides of the world. "Ideally if it's called the World Cup then the world should be participating. We need to find ways to engage more teams yet keep that standard of playing high," Tendulkar said. "It's not going to happen overnight. We need to find ways to do that. I will love to see more than 10 teams participating but also at the same time not compromise on the standard of playing. "It's going to be a lengthy process. Lesser teams should get more exposure to get ready for big tournaments." India suffered the ignominy of being eliminated in the opening round of the tournament in 2007 while 2019 hosts England met the same fate last time the showpiece event was held in Australia and New Zealand four years back. But this year's format -- which will see all teams playing each other with the top four advancing to the semi-finals -- will ensure teams have a shot at redemption, according to Tendulkar. "This format still gives you a chance to come back. You are not out even before you wake up," Tendulkar said. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: "Sometimes it can be harsh. Since this is the World Cup, one would want to get another chance. If it's a bad day then you have time to recover and this format allows you to recover."

Southpaw shortage not a concern for India's batting: Sachin Tendulkar

BCCI Ethics Officer Justice DK Jain Monday dismissed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-ombudsman-issues-notice-to-sachin-tendulkar-for-conflict-of-interest-213378">'conflict of interest' allegations against Sachin Tendulkar</a> after the cricket icon refused to be part of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) unless he is provided with agreeable 'terms of reference'.&nbsp;

Jain in a two-page verdict described the allegations as "infructuous" (pointless), ruling that the matter had to be disposed off after Tendulkar made his position clear that he will not "act as such" a member of the CAC.

"Once the BCCI furnished the terms of reference and tenure, he will decide on the course of his participation in the same. Mr Tendulkar doesn't consider himself to be part of any Cricket Advisory Committee and will not act as such. In consequence, the present complaint doesn't survive for adjudication."&nbsp;

"....Resultantly, the present complaint is rendered infructuous and is disposed of, as such," Jain wrote in his verdict.&nbsp;

Jain, who is also BCCI Ombudsman, said Tendulkar, through his legal Counsel Amit Sibal had issued a statement, which was enough to dismiss the case.

Tendulkar's legal counsel's statement read: "Without prejudice to his rights and contentions in the present proceeding, Mr. Sachin Tendulkar wishes to reiterate that he has been requesting BCCI since the inception of the CAC that terms of reference and his tenure is furnished to him.&nbsp;

"He has requested this repeatedly and several times over the years including as recently as on 7.12.2018. He is now left with no other choice but communicate to BCCI that until and unless the BCCI furnishes the terms of reference and tenure of his appointment in the CAC, he has decided not be part of any committee of the BCCI including the CAC."&nbsp;

It effectively means that Tendulkar won't be a part of the new coach selection process after World Cup unless CoA gives proper terms of reference.

It was Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) life member Sanjeev Gupta, who had alleged that both Tendulkar and VVS Laxman are conflicted for performing dual roles as CAC member as well as mentor/icon with their franchises Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively.&nbsp;

However, Tendulkar in his affidavit had categorically denied that he has any financial agreement in both his roles and hence doesn't come under tractable 'conflict of interest'.&nbsp;

It has been learnt that CoA is ready with terms of reference and will be handed over to him now that the case is over.&nbsp;

BCCI Ethics Officer Justice DK Jain Monday dismissed the 'conflict of interest' allegations against Sachin Tendulkar after the cricket icon refused to be part of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) unless he is provided with agreeable 'terms of reference'.

BCCI Ethics Officer Justice DK Jain Monday dismissed the 'conflict of interest' allegations against Sachin Tendulkar after the cricket icon refused to be part of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) unless he is provided with agreeable 'terms of reference'. Jain in a two-page verdict described the allegations as "infructuous" (pointless), ruling that the matter had to be disposed off after Tendulkar made his position clear that he will not "act as such" a member of the CAC. "Once the BCCI furnished the terms of reference and tenure, he will decide on the course of his participation in the same. Mr Tendulkar doesn't consider himself to be part of any Cricket Advisory Committee and will not act as such. In consequence, the present complaint doesn't survive for adjudication." "....Resultantly, the present complaint is rendered infructuous and is disposed of, as such," Jain wrote in his verdict. Jain, who is also BCCI Ombudsman, said Tendulkar, through his legal Counsel Amit Sibal had issued a statement, which was enough to dismiss the case. Tendulkar's legal counsel's statement read: "Without prejudice to his rights and contentions in the present proceeding, Mr. Sachin Tendulkar wishes to reiterate that he has been requesting BCCI since the inception of the CAC that terms of reference and his tenure is furnished to him. "He has requested this repeatedly and several times over the years including as recently as on 7.12.2018. He is now left with no other choice but communicate to BCCI that until and unless the BCCI furnishes the terms of reference and tenure of his appointment in the CAC, he has decided not be part of any committee of the BCCI including the CAC." It effectively means that Tendulkar won't be a part of the new coach selection process after World Cup unless CoA gives proper terms of reference. It was Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) life member Sanjeev Gupta, who had alleged that both Tendulkar and VVS Laxman are conflicted for performing dual roles as CAC member as well as mentor/icon with their franchises Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively. However, Tendulkar in his affidavit had categorically denied that he has any financial agreement in both his roles and hence doesn't come under tractable 'conflict of interest'. It has been learnt that CoA is ready with terms of reference and will be handed over to him now that the case is over.

BCCI ethics officer dismisses conflict of interest charge against Sachin Tendulkar

Narendra Modi-led Bhartiya Janta Party will form the government of India for the next five years after a complete majority win in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-narendra-modi-likely-to-take-oath-as-prime-minister-on-may-30-221221">Lok Sabha election 2019</a>.&nbsp;

The victory is historic as BJP itself won 303 seats that left the opposition dazed and demoralised.&nbsp;

While the counting on few of the seats is still going on, the BJP-led NDA is poised to get 348 of the 542 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;

From global leaders to Bollywood stars, wishes poured in for the winner of the world's largest democracy.&nbsp;

Cricket fraternity too shared greetings and wished PM Modi as the ruling party came back in power with a staggering mandate.&nbsp;

Master-blaster Sachin Tendulkar wrote, "My heartiest congratulations to @narendramodi Ji &amp; @BJP4India for winning the #LokSabhaElections2019. The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India."

Virendra Sehwag said, "India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri @narendramodi ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind."

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My heartiest congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> for winning the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a>. 
The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India 🇮🇳.
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1131576584240898048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VijayiBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VijayiBharat</a> <a href="https://t.co/uQerPssTkH">pic.twitter.com/uQerPssTkH</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1131531325108674560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> and Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji on a resounding victory. Sincerely hope that India prospers under your leadership in the next 5 years 🙏🏼
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1131528569488756737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Laxman also congratulated Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha election from East Delhi constituency.&nbsp;

Laxman wrote, "Many Congratulations @GautamGambhir on your victory. Wish you well always. May you serve people well."&nbsp;

As per the latest reports, the swearing-in ceremony could take place by the middle of next week — May 30 is the likely date.&nbsp;

In the previous Lok Sabha polls,&nbsp;the counting took place on May 16, PM Modi and his cabinet ministers had taken oath on May 26.&nbsp;

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People of the country have given their mandate. Many congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji and <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> for their second innings and here's hoping for another fantastic term ahead. 🙏
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1131540653291200512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Indian cricket head coach wrote, "Another stunning @narendramodi &amp; @AmitShah partnership tracerbullets @BJP4India to poll position for second time running. Election results further reaffirm Modi Ji’s leadership of the world's largest democracy. Awesome performance #ModiSweep #IndianElections2019 #VijayiBharat."

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, "Modi ji's astounding victory is not only the symbol of hope, stability, progress but also it’s a victory of Believers over non-believers. Heartiest congratulations sir. Thank you for being a guiding force for all of us.@narendramodi."

Mohammad Kaif said, "Congratulations PM @narendramodi ji on a resounding victory. May we grow as a nation !"

Spinner R Ashwin said, "Congratulations Prime Minister @narendramodi ji on the resounding victory . I sincerely hope and pray that under your able leadership the country will progress and grow to greater heights"

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&nbsp;

Narendra Modi-led Bhartiya Janta Party will form the government of India for the next five years after a complete majority win in the Lok Sabha election 2019. The victory is historic as BJP itself won 303 seats that left the opposition dazed and demoralised.

Narendra Modi-led Bhartiya Janta Party will form the government of India for the next five years after a complete majority win in the Lok Sabha election 2019. The victory is historic as BJP itself won 303 seats that left the opposition dazed and demoralised. While the counting on few of the seats is still going on, the BJP-led NDA is poised to get 348 of the 542 Lok Sabha seats. From global leaders to Bollywood stars, wishes poured in for the winner of the world's largest democracy. Cricket fraternity too shared greetings and wished PM Modi as the ruling party came back in power with a staggering mandate. Master-blaster Sachin Tendulkar wrote, "My heartiest congratulations to @narendramodi Ji & @BJP4India for winning the #LokSabhaElections2019. The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India." Virendra Sehwag said, "India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri @narendramodi ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind." My heartiest congratulations to @narendramodi Ji & @BJP4India for winning the #LokSabhaElections2019. The nation is with you in building a brighter and stronger New India 🇮🇳. — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) May 23, 2019 × India has won. The world’s largest democracy has given it’s mandate. Many congratulations to Shri @narendramodi ji on being the leader of this great victory. May the second innings be even better and India continue to progress and reach greater heights. Jai Hind #VijayiBharat pic.twitter.com/uQerPssTkH — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) May 23, 2019 × Congratulations to @BJP4India and Shri @narendramodi ji on a resounding victory. Sincerely hope that India prospers under your leadership in the next 5 years 🙏🏼 — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) May 23, 2019 × Laxman also congratulated Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha election from East Delhi constituency. Laxman wrote, "Many Congratulations @GautamGambhir on your victory. Wish you well always. May you serve people well." As per the latest reports, the swearing-in ceremony could take place by the middle of next week — May 30 is the likely date. In the previous Lok Sabha polls, the counting took place on May 16, PM Modi and his cabinet ministers had taken oath on May 26. People of the country have given their mandate. Many congratulations to @narendramodi ji and @BJP4India for their second innings and here's hoping for another fantastic term ahead. 🙏 — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) May 23, 2019 × Indian cricket head coach wrote, "Another stunning @narendramodi & @AmitShah partnership tracerbullets @BJP4India to poll position for second time running. Election results further reaffirm Modi Ji’s leadership of the world's largest democracy. Awesome performance #ModiSweep #IndianElections2019 #VijayiBharat." All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, "Modi ji's astounding victory is not only the symbol of hope, stability, progress but also it’s a victory of Believers over non-believers. Heartiest congratulations sir. Thank you for being a guiding force for all of us.@narendramodi." Mohammad Kaif said, "Congratulations PM @narendramodi ji on a resounding victory. May we grow as a nation !" Spinner R Ashwin said, "Congratulations Prime Minister @narendramodi ji on the resounding victory . I sincerely hope and pray that under your able leadership the country will progress and grow to greater heights" ×

From Sachin to Laxman, cricket fraternity wishes PM Modi for sweeping Lok Sabha 2019 election

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420">India </a>need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-i-prepare-myself-for-world-cup-will-be-real-challenge-for-me-vijay-shankar-219589">Vijay Shankar</a> is set to bat at number four in the earlier games.

Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQi-bjhbHiAhXM_XMBHT6qBvAQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2F5wk0k7uAwWI_lkpFFqMM">Tendulkar</a>.

"My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo.

"I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat at No. 3</a> and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said.

"That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-needs-ms-dhoni-in-2019-world-cup-says-sunil-gavaskar-174415&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV4u2DhrHiAhWKPo8KHdLkDsU4ChAWMAN6BAgOEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1mpLLYAel5FcZKB5KiPtPD">Dhoni </a>can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added.

Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners.

"A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said.

"And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added.

England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing.

"I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said.

"It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar. Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder Vijay Shankar is set to bat at number four in the earlier games. Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes Tendulkar. "My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo. "I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to Virat at No. 3 and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said. "That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and Dhoni can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added. Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners. "A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said. "And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added. England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing. "I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said. "It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

Sachin Tendulkar says, MS Dhoni best suited at No 5 for India at the Cricket World Cup 2019

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat Kohli</a>, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294">Sachin Tendulkar</a>.

In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation.

"I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions.

Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation.

"I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said.

However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day.

"It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time.

What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls.

"The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman.

"When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups.

Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen.

What's the solution then? He responded,&nbsp;"I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers."

According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal.

The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England.

"Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs.

"Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes."

For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan.

"Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said.

"There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said.

What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience.

"There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar.

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar. In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation. "I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions. Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation. "I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said. However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day. "It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time. What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls. "The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman. "When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups. Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen. What's the solution then? He responded, "I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers." According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal. The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England. "Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs. "Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes." For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan. "Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said. "There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said. What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience. "There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.

Virat alone can't win World Cup, others will need to step up: Sachin Tendulkar 

Just 10 days to go to...

When you think of number 10 and cricket together then only one name comes to mind...which is Sachin Tendulkar, who is often regarded as the 'God of Cricket'. Tendulkar made the jersey number 10 significant in cricket, otherwise, it is a popular shirt number in football.&nbsp;

Tendulkar was the first Indian cricketer to wear number 10 jersey. Initially, he used to wear the 99 number later switched to the number 10 and made popular in the cricket scenario.&nbsp;

But Sachin is not the only cricketer to wear the iconic number, here are other names who also wear the same number.&nbsp;

Before Tendulkar, former Australian cricketer Stuart Law donned jersey number 10. Stuart Law, who is also a cricket coach, has played one Test and 54 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for Australia.&nbsp;

Here are players, who wore the jersey number 10 after Sachin Tendulkar:

Shahid Afridi, the former Pakistani cricketer and one of the most successful all-rounders of all times, also wore the number 10 jersey. Afridi is recently making headlines for his autobiography for lying about his age.&nbsp;

From 2004-05, Darren Lehmann, the former Australian cricketer wore jersey number 10 in his career, although his official jersey number was 25. He is a former coach of Australian cricket team but stepped down of the post in 2017 after a ball-tampering scandal that involved three players.&nbsp;

Former New Zealand cricketer Craig McMillan, who played all forms of cricket for his national team, too wore the iconic number. He is currently the New Zealand batting coach and also a commentator.&nbsp;

Former English cricketer Geraint Jones, who also played for Papua New Guinea, wore jersey number 10 in his career.&nbsp;

Australian cricketer Peter Siddle also donned the jersey number 10. The pacer currently plays for Victoria in first-class and List A cricket and for the Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League and was recently recalled for the Test series against Pakistan in 2018.&nbsp;

After Sachin, the Indian cricketer Shardul Thakur wore the number 10 but it did not go down well with the fans. He faced severe backlash for the same.&nbsp;

The jersey number 10 also has a great significance in football as some of the iconic players of all time have played in #10.&nbsp;

From Diego Maradona to Lionel Messi, from Pele to Neymar, some of the most influential footballers have worn it.&nbsp;

Just 10 days to go to... When you think of number 10 and cricket together then only one name comes to mind...which is Sachin Tendulkar, who is often regarded as the 'God of Cricket'.

Just 10 days to go to... When you think of number 10 and cricket together then only one name comes to mind...which is Sachin Tendulkar, who is often regarded as the 'God of Cricket'. Tendulkar made the jersey number 10 significant in cricket, otherwise, it is a popular shirt number in football. Tendulkar was the first Indian cricketer to wear number 10 jersey. Initially, he used to wear the 99 number later switched to the number 10 and made popular in the cricket scenario. But Sachin is not the only cricketer to wear the iconic number, here are other names who also wear the same number. Before Tendulkar, former Australian cricketer Stuart Law donned jersey number 10. Stuart Law, who is also a cricket coach, has played one Test and 54 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for Australia. Here are players, who wore the jersey number 10 after Sachin Tendulkar: Shahid Afridi, the former Pakistani cricketer and one of the most successful all-rounders of all times, also wore the number 10 jersey. Afridi is recently making headlines for his autobiography for lying about his age. From 2004-05, Darren Lehmann, the former Australian cricketer wore jersey number 10 in his career, although his official jersey number was 25. He is a former coach of Australian cricket team but stepped down of the post in 2017 after a ball-tampering scandal that involved three players. Former New Zealand cricketer Craig McMillan, who played all forms of cricket for his national team, too wore the iconic number. He is currently the New Zealand batting coach and also a commentator. Former English cricketer Geraint Jones, who also played for Papua New Guinea, wore jersey number 10 in his career. Australian cricketer Peter Siddle also donned the jersey number 10. The pacer currently plays for Victoria in first-class and List A cricket and for the Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League and was recently recalled for the Test series against Pakistan in 2018. After Sachin, the Indian cricketer Shardul Thakur wore the number 10 but it did not go down well with the fans. He faced severe backlash for the same. The jersey number 10 also has a great significance in football as some of the iconic players of all time have played in #10. From Diego Maradona to Lionel Messi, from Pele to Neymar, some of the most influential footballers have worn it.

Cricketers who wore iconic jersey number 10 apart from Sachin Tendulkar

Australian cricket head coach Justin Langer looked impressed with the performance of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-steve-smith-plays-down-elbow-scare-ahead-of-world-cup-214761">Steve Smith</a> ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.&nbsp;

Smith, who served a year ban for his involvement in a ball-tampering incident last year, scored an unbeaten 89 and 91 in the warm-up games against New Zealand XI in Brisbane last week.&nbsp;

"(I) watched Steve Smith batting against New Zealand in those three practice games, he's literally a master of the game, so it's nice to have him back," Langer told reporters in London.&nbsp;

"He loves batting – he's shadow batting on the sand, he's shadow batting in the shower – I'm not joking," he added.&nbsp;

Langer was particularly impressed by one of the shots Smith played during his innings. He even said that the shot looked like former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar's.&nbsp;

"Last week in Brisbane, [Smith] batted beautifully, he played an unbelievable shot off Nathan Coulter-Nile there - it was like watching Sachin bat. He's in pretty good shape I think," he said.&nbsp;

Langer spoke about the conditions in England as the games are expected to be high scoring, "In T20, it's absolutely critical and the same in ODI cricket. You're going to have a pretty thick skin to do well in international cricket, particularly on the flatter wickets and the fast outfields and the big squares we play on in England."

"There's a lot of talk about batting now in white-ball cricket, but our bowling is absolutely critical," he added.&nbsp;

The defending champions Australia, who have won the World Cup four times in the last five editions, will start their campaign against Afghanistan on June 1 at the Bristol County Ground.&nbsp;

"When everyone says we've got to start playing like England or start playing like New Zealand or start playing like India, no - we'll keep playing like Australia because we've won four of the past five World Cups and that's something to be proud of."

The boys are aware of it and we know if we stick to the Australian way of playing great cricket... history has shown we'll be pretty good," Langer concluded.&nbsp;

Australian cricket head coach Justin Langer looked impressed with the performance of Steve Smith ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

Australian cricket head coach Justin Langer looked impressed with the performance of Steve Smith ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30. Smith, who served a year ban for his involvement in a ball-tampering incident last year, scored an unbeaten 89 and 91 in the warm-up games against New Zealand XI in Brisbane last week. "(I) watched Steve Smith batting against New Zealand in those three practice games, he's literally a master of the game, so it's nice to have him back," Langer told reporters in London. "He loves batting – he's shadow batting on the sand, he's shadow batting in the shower – I'm not joking," he added. Langer was particularly impressed by one of the shots Smith played during his innings. He even said that the shot looked like former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar's. "Last week in Brisbane, [Smith] batted beautifully, he played an unbelievable shot off Nathan Coulter-Nile there - it was like watching Sachin bat. He's in pretty good shape I think," he said. Langer spoke about the conditions in England as the games are expected to be high scoring, "In T20, it's absolutely critical and the same in ODI cricket. You're going to have a pretty thick skin to do well in international cricket, particularly on the flatter wickets and the fast outfields and the big squares we play on in England." "There's a lot of talk about batting now in white-ball cricket, but our bowling is absolutely critical," he added. The defending champions Australia, who have won the World Cup four times in the last five editions, will start their campaign against Afghanistan on June 1 at the Bristol County Ground. "When everyone says we've got to start playing like England or start playing like New Zealand or start playing like India, no - we'll keep playing like Australia because we've won four of the past five World Cups and that's something to be proud of." The boys are aware of it and we know if we stick to the Australian way of playing great cricket... history has shown we'll be pretty good," Langer concluded.

'It was like watching Sachin bat': Justin Langer compares Steve Smith to Sachin Tendulkar

German luxury car maker BMW on Thursday launched the new generation X5 SUV in India at a starting price of Rs 72.9 lakh for diesel variants. The car was launched by BMW Group India acting president Hans-Christian Bartels and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar.

Sachin Tendulkar launches BMW new X5 SUV in India

German luxury car maker BMW on Thursday launched the new generation X5 SUV in India at a starting price of Rs 72.9 lakh for diesel variants.

The car was launched by BMW Group India acting president Hans-Christian Bartels and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar.

BMW X5 is one of the most selling models for the car makers in the domestic market, and the latest version of the SUV will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo XC90, Range Rover Velar, Porsche Cayenne and the Audi Q7.

"BMW established the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment with the launch of BMW X5 in 1999. The BMW X5 has been the best-selling car in this segment for many years and has become one of our most successful models. The all-new BMW X5 is bound to add another chapter to this success story," said Bartels.

BMW sold 13 per cent more cars in India in the previous calendar year at 11,105 units as against 9,800 units in 2017.

The group also reported its highest-ever first quarter sales at 2,982 units in the March quarter this year.

The sales of the BMW brand cars surged 19 per cent to 2,822 units during the quarter against the same period a year ago.

The MINI brand sold 160 units during the period, an increase of 18 per cent from the year-ago period.

Besides, BMW Motorrad, the group's premium luxury motorcycle arm, also sold 597 bikes during the first quarter of 2019.

"I saw the first time (the car) when I was in Europe, and once I got out of the airport, an X5 was parked for me," Tendulkar said.&nbsp;

German luxury car maker BMW on Thursday launched the new generation X5 SUV in India at a starting price of Rs 72.9 lakh for diesel variants. The car was launched by BMW Group India acting president Hans-Christian Bartels and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar. BMW X5 is one of the most selling models for the car makers in the domestic market, and the latest version of the SUV will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo XC90, Range Rover Velar, Porsche Cayenne and the Audi Q7. "BMW established the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment with the launch of BMW X5 in 1999. The BMW X5 has been the best-selling car in this segment for many years and has become one of our most successful models. The all-new BMW X5 is bound to add another chapter to this success story," said Bartels. BMW sold 13 per cent more cars in India in the previous calendar year at 11,105 units as against 9,800 units in 2017. The group also reported its highest-ever first quarter sales at 2,982 units in the March quarter this year. The sales of the BMW brand cars surged 19 per cent to 2,822 units during the quarter against the same period a year ago. The MINI brand sold 160 units during the period, an increase of 18 per cent from the year-ago period. Besides, BMW Motorrad, the group's premium luxury motorcycle arm, also sold 597 bikes during the first quarter of 2019. "I saw the first time (the car) when I was in Europe, and once I got out of the airport, an X5 was parked for me," Tendulkar said.

BMW launches new X5 SUV in India, prices start at Rs 72.9 lakh

Former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar said that pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the best bowler in the world in the current scenario.&nbsp;

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mumbai-lift-4th-ipl-trophy-with-1-run-win-over-chennai-218193">Mumbai defeated MS Dhoni-led Chennai by one ru</a>n in the final of Indian Premier League 2019 to clinch the coveted trophy, Sachin reflected his thoughts on Bumrah's performance.&nbsp;

"Without any doubt, I go on record and say that he (Bumrah) is the best bowler in the world at this stage and the best is yet to come (from him) hopefully," said Tendulkar.&nbsp;

In a video posted by the official handle of IPL, Tendulkar was chatting with Yuvraj Singh, who also agreed to Tendulkar's thought about Bumrah.&nbsp;

Yuvraj Singh, who added, "totally agree with you (Tendulkar),"

Watch the video:

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'Bumrah, world's best' - Sachin and Yuvi<a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> were unanimous in their opinion of <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> , while weighing in on <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a>'s 3rd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> final win over their arch-rivals. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> By <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a> 
 
Watch the 📹 - <a href="https://t.co/Z0yAur9KGk">https://t.co/Z0yAur9KGk</a> <a href="https://t.co/RFwXrJR417">pic.twitter.com/RFwXrJR417</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1127694917893890048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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When Sachin asked what makes Bumrah a special bowler, Yuvraj said, "I think his action is a bit awkward but it is tough to understand what pace is coming. I think he is bowling the best I have seen in his career."

During the post-match presentation, Bumrah said, "We were trying to keep calm and not panic. We did the same thing in 2017. Eventually, it worked out. Really happy. We always believed in our team. We have confidence in each and every individual."

Bumrah was given Man of Match award for his economical bowling in the death overs and picking up two wickets in the crucial match.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar said that pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the best bowler in the world in the current scenario. After Mumbai defeated MS Dhoni-led Chennai by one run in the final of Indian Premier League 2019 to clinch the coveted trophy, Sachin reflected his thoughts on Bumrah's performance.

Former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar said that pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the best bowler in the world in the current scenario. After Mumbai defeated MS Dhoni-led Chennai by one run in the final of Indian Premier League 2019 to clinch the coveted trophy, Sachin reflected his thoughts on Bumrah's performance. "Without any doubt, I go on record and say that he (Bumrah) is the best bowler in the world at this stage and the best is yet to come (from him) hopefully," said Tendulkar. In a video posted by the official handle of IPL, Tendulkar was chatting with Yuvraj Singh, who also agreed to Tendulkar's thought about Bumrah. Yuvraj Singh, who added, "totally agree with you (Tendulkar)," Watch the video: 'Bumrah, world's best' - Sachin and Yuvi@sachin_rt and @YUVSTRONG12 were unanimous in their opinion of @Jaspritbumrah93 , while weighing in on @mipaltan's 3rd #VIVOIPL final win over their arch-rivals. #MIvCSK By @28anand & @RajalArora Watch the 📹 - https://t.co/Z0yAur9KGk pic.twitter.com/RFwXrJR417 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 12, 2019 × When Sachin asked what makes Bumrah a special bowler, Yuvraj said, "I think his action is a bit awkward but it is tough to understand what pace is coming. I think he is bowling the best I have seen in his career." During the post-match presentation, Bumrah said, "We were trying to keep calm and not panic. We did the same thing in 2017. Eventually, it worked out. Really happy. We always believed in our team. We have confidence in each and every individual." Bumrah was given Man of Match award for his economical bowling in the death overs and picking up two wickets in the crucial match.

Sachin Tendulkar says, 'Jasprit Bumrah is the best bowler at this stage'

Legendary cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Sachin+Tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a> Thursday said the World Cup in the United Kingdom will offer beautiful batting tracks but he doesn't expect the ball to swing much in the hot conditions that will prevail there.

The World Cup, which will kick-start on May 30 in the UK, will see all 10 participating nations face-off against each other.

"I am told it's going to be a hot summer. Even in the Champions Trophy, the wickets were superb when the sun was out. In the heat, the wickets get really flat. I am sure they will give beautiful tracks to bat on," Tendulkar said on the sidelines of the inauguration of the MIG Club pavilion named after him.&nbsp;

"I don't think there will be much difference in the conditions unless there is a heavy cloud cover. If there is a cloud cover, the ball might go around a bit. Even if that's the case I don't see that happening for a longer duration just the first over if at all," he added.&nbsp;

Several Indian players, including captain Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul, are performing well in the ongoing Indian Premier League.

Asked if that will help them in the World Cup, Tendulkar said,&nbsp;"A good performance in any format is good news because it gives the player confidence. If you are confident in any format, that's important."

"The players have time to make some adjustments according to the conditions. All of them have played enough cricket to know what to do to improve," he added.

The 46-year-old, who also launched the Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy camp here, recalled an interesting anecdote from one of the playing trips to England.

"Once, we played a match in Essex and were travelling to our next venue and there was a major motor accident. In 3-3.5 hours we had just covered just 250 metres. We thought if we walk we might possibly cover more distance. Even now when all of us get together we discuss that day and how half a movie ended while our bus coach was stuck at the same place", he said.

The cricket icon also extended his best wishes to another batting legend Brian Lara on his birthday.

"We both caught up a few weeks ago. I told him 50 down 50 to go. He is a wonderful chap, with him what you see is what you get. He is a thorough gentleman and we've gotten along well for several years. He has done special things on the cricket field but I hope the best is yet to come for him," Tendulkar said

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar Thursday said the World Cup in the United Kingdom will offer beautiful batting tracks but he doesn't expect the ball to swing much in the hot conditions that will prevail there.

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar Thursday said the World Cup in the United Kingdom will offer beautiful batting tracks but he doesn't expect the ball to swing much in the hot conditions that will prevail there. The World Cup, which will kick-start on May 30 in the UK, will see all 10 participating nations face-off against each other. "I am told it's going to be a hot summer. Even in the Champions Trophy, the wickets were superb when the sun was out. In the heat, the wickets get really flat. I am sure they will give beautiful tracks to bat on," Tendulkar said on the sidelines of the inauguration of the MIG Club pavilion named after him. "I don't think there will be much difference in the conditions unless there is a heavy cloud cover. If there is a cloud cover, the ball might go around a bit. Even if that's the case I don't see that happening for a longer duration just the first over if at all," he added. Several Indian players, including captain Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul, are performing well in the ongoing Indian Premier League. Asked if that will help them in the World Cup, Tendulkar said, "A good performance in any format is good news because it gives the player confidence. If you are confident in any format, that's important." "The players have time to make some adjustments according to the conditions. All of them have played enough cricket to know what to do to improve," he added. The 46-year-old, who also launched the Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy camp here, recalled an interesting anecdote from one of the playing trips to England. "Once, we played a match in Essex and were travelling to our next venue and there was a major motor accident. In 3-3.5 hours we had just covered just 250 metres. We thought if we walk we might possibly cover more distance. Even now when all of us get together we discuss that day and how half a movie ended while our bus coach was stuck at the same place", he said. The cricket icon also extended his best wishes to another batting legend Brian Lara on his birthday. "We both caught up a few weeks ago. I told him 50 down 50 to go. He is a wonderful chap, with him what you see is what you get. He is a thorough gentleman and we've gotten along well for several years. He has done special things on the cricket field but I hope the best is yet to come for him," Tendulkar said

Beautiful tracks for batsmen but bowlers won't get lateral movement at the World Cup in England: Tendulkar

The 4th phase of the Lok Sabha election 2019 has been summed up and had witnessed various celebrities in the queue to cast their vote. Watch video to know more.

Lok Sabha election 2019: Stars queue up to vote in Mumbai city for 4th phase

Former cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=sachin+tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a> with his wife Anjali Tendulkar cast their votes at a booth in Mumbai. Their son Arjun Tendulkar, a budding left-arm pacer, and daughter Sara voted for the first time.&nbsp;

Before leaving for the polling booth, Sachin took to Twitter to announce it. He wrote, "As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where?"

After casting his vote, he tweeted, "Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time."

He also requested the citizens of India to use their right to vote, he said, "I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!"

The Tendulkar family shared their picture of their inked index fingers with big bright smiles on the faces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-fourth-phase-polling-underway-in-nine-states-214251">Voting is underway in 71 constituencies</a> for the fourth phase of Lok Sabha polls across Bihar, Odisha, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

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As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where? 😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SecretMission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SecretMission</a> <a href="https://t.co/nJL6QlvIvL">pic.twitter.com/nJL6QlvIvL</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1122798040019034112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time. 
I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GotInked?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GotInked</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECISVEEP</a> <a href="https://t.co/stUpabsZsg">pic.twitter.com/stUpabsZsg</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1122798588357226496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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From Rekha to Priyanka Chopra, Bollywood stars also came out to caste their votes. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lok-sabha-polls-2019-bollywood-stars-come-out-to-vote-214327">See Pictures</a>...

Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar with his wife Anjali Tendulkar cast their votes at a booth in Mumbai. Their son Arjun Tendulkar, a budding left-arm pacer, and daughter Sara voted for the first time.

Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar with his wife Anjali Tendulkar cast their votes at a booth in Mumbai. Their son Arjun Tendulkar, a budding left-arm pacer, and daughter Sara voted for the first time. Before leaving for the polling booth, Sachin took to Twitter to announce it. He wrote, "As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where?" After casting his vote, he tweeted, "Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time." He also requested the citizens of India to use their right to vote, he said, "I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!" The Tendulkar family shared their picture of their inked index fingers with big bright smiles on the faces. Voting is underway in 71 constituencies for the fourth phase of Lok Sabha polls across Bihar, Odisha, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir. As planned, I'm on my way. Any guesses where? 😉 #SecretMission pic.twitter.com/nJL6QlvIvL — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 29, 2019 × Voting this year has been so much more special with Sara and Arjun voting for the first time. I urge you all to go out and VOTE too!#LokSabhaElections#GotInked@ECISVEEP pic.twitter.com/stUpabsZsg — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 29, 2019 × From Rekha to Priyanka Chopra, Bollywood stars also came out to caste their votes. See Pictures...

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar with wife Anjali cast their votes in Mumbai

The pavilion of the MIG Cricket Club in Bandra area will be named after batting legend Sachin Tendulkar on May 2.

During his over two-decade-long international career, Tendulkar would often practice at the club.

"The pavilion to be named after Tendulkar will be inaugurated on May 2," the club's cricket secretary Amit Dani told PTI.

He said Tendulkar's son Arjun, a budding left-arm pacer, also plays for the club.

The MIG Club, a member of the Mumbai Cricket Association, plays in tournaments organised by the MCA.

A stand is already named after Tendulkar at the MCA's Wankhede Stadium, where the legendary batsman played his last and 200th Test match against West Indies in November 2013.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that the Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy (TMGA) summer cricket coaching camps for 2019 will also be held at the MIG Cricket Club from May 2 to 5.

Former international players like Vinod Kambli would be training the participants.&nbsp;

The pavilion of the MIG Cricket Club in Bandra area will be named after batting legend Sachin Tendulkar on May 2. During his over two-decade-long international career, Tendulkar would often practice at the club.

The pavilion of the MIG Cricket Club in Bandra area will be named after batting legend Sachin Tendulkar on May 2. During his over two-decade-long international career, Tendulkar would often practice at the club. "The pavilion to be named after Tendulkar will be inaugurated on May 2," the club's cricket secretary Amit Dani told PTI. He said Tendulkar's son Arjun, a budding left-arm pacer, also plays for the club. The MIG Club, a member of the Mumbai Cricket Association, plays in tournaments organised by the MCA. A stand is already named after Tendulkar at the MCA's Wankhede Stadium, where the legendary batsman played his last and 200th Test match against West Indies in November 2013. Meanwhile, it is learnt that the Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy (TMGA) summer cricket coaching camps for 2019 will also be held at the MIG Cricket Club from May 2 to 5. Former international players like Vinod Kambli would be training the participants.

Mumbai: Pavilion at MIG Club to be named after Sachin Tendulkar

Legendary Sachin Tendulkar has categorically refuted all<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-ombudsman-issues-notice-to-sachin-tendulkar-for-conflict-of-interest-213378"> allegations of Conflict of Interest levelled against him</a> as he claimed to have neither "received any compensation" nor of holding any decision making a role in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a> franchise Mumbai team.&nbsp;

Tendulkar on Sunday filed a 14-point written response to a notice sent by Ombudsman cum Ethics Officer Justice (Retd) DK Jain. It was with regards to a Conflict of Interest complaint filed by the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) member Sanjeev Gupta.

As per the complainant, Tendulkar and Laxman are allegedly performing dual roles of a "support staff" of their respective IPL franchises Mumbai and Hyderabad and members of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).

"At the outset, the Noticee (Tendulkar) denies the contents of the Complaint in totality (except the statements specifically admitted herein). No part of the Complaint should be deemed to be admitted by the Noticee for lack of specific denials," Tendulkar wrote in his response which is in possession of PTI.&nbsp;

Since Gupta's complaints harped specifically on Tendulkar's role in the Mumbai team, the iconic cricketer in his response has made full disclosure of his role in the franchise.&nbsp;

"The Noticee (Tendulkar) has received no pecuniary benefit/ compensation from the Mumbai Indians IPL Franchise in his capacity as the Mumbai Indians 'ICON' since his retirement and is certainly not employed with the Franchise in any capacity.&nbsp;

"He does not occupy any position, nor has he taken any decision (including selection of team players) which could qualify as being in governance or management of the Franchise. Accordingly, there is no conflict of interest, either under the BCCI Rules or otherwise," world's leading run-getter further explained.

As far as his role in the Cricket Advisory Committee is concerned, Tendulkar mentioned that he was appointed as a member of the BCCI committee in 2015, which was years after his involvement with the Mumbai.

"The Noticee was appointed to the panel of the Cricket Advisory Committee ("CAC") in the year 2015. The Hon'ble Ethics Officer will appreciate that the Noticee was named as the 'ICON' for Mumbai Indians much prior to his empanelment with the CAC ? which fact has always been in the public domain.&nbsp;

"Accordingly, the BCCI aware of the Noticee's association with the Mumbai Indians Franchise at the time of his appointment to the CAC."

Tendulkar, in his disclosure, further makes it clear that the role of an icon -- the one he is performing right now in the IPL franchise team -- in no way is a position either in the management or the governance of the franchise.&nbsp;

"The Complaint wrongly assumes that the Noticee's association with the Mumbai Indians IPL Franchise (Franchise) is in the capacity of "governance", "management" or "employment"? thereby attracting a conflict under Rule 38 (4).&nbsp;

"His role is limited to providing guidance to the Franchise team by sharing his insights, learnings and working closely with the younger members in the team to help them realise their true potential."

On his reply to Gupta's question of him sitting in the team's 'dugout' -- place specified for players and support staff only, he termed the allegation as "absurd".&nbsp;

"A mentor cannot be qualified as "management" of the Franchise. If the Complainant's absurd logic were to be applied, a physiotherapist, trainer or a masseur would also be qualified as "management" of the Franchise," Tendulkar responded, making it clear that he is answerable to none of the support staff.&nbsp;

"It is also pertinent to note that the Mumbai Indians team has a head coach, who works side by side with coaches for specific disciplines such as bowling, batting etc. In ultimate coordination with the Director of Cricket Operations? none of whom the Noticee is answerable to or vice versa since his role is limited to that of providing guidance and motivation to the team."

Tendulkar also made it clear that in case Ombudsman wants to "continue proceedings", he would "request for a personal hearing along with his legal representatives."&nbsp;

Legendary Sachin Tendulkar has categorically refuted all allegations of Conflict of Interest levelled against him as he claimed to have neither "received any compensation" nor of holding any decision making a role in the Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai team.

Legendary Sachin Tendulkar has categorically refuted all allegations of Conflict of Interest levelled against him as he claimed to have neither "received any compensation" nor of holding any decision making a role in the Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai team. Tendulkar on Sunday filed a 14-point written response to a notice sent by Ombudsman cum Ethics Officer Justice (Retd) DK Jain. It was with regards to a Conflict of Interest complaint filed by the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) member Sanjeev Gupta. As per the complainant, Tendulkar and Laxman are allegedly performing dual roles of a "support staff" of their respective IPL franchises Mumbai and Hyderabad and members of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC). "At the outset, the Noticee (Tendulkar) denies the contents of the Complaint in totality (except the statements specifically admitted herein). No part of the Complaint should be deemed to be admitted by the Noticee for lack of specific denials," Tendulkar wrote in his response which is in possession of PTI. Since Gupta's complaints harped specifically on Tendulkar's role in the Mumbai team, the iconic cricketer in his response has made full disclosure of his role in the franchise. "The Noticee (Tendulkar) has received no pecuniary benefit/ compensation from the Mumbai Indians IPL Franchise in his capacity as the Mumbai Indians 'ICON' since his retirement and is certainly not employed with the Franchise in any capacity. "He does not occupy any position, nor has he taken any decision (including selection of team players) which could qualify as being in governance or management of the Franchise. Accordingly, there is no conflict of interest, either under the BCCI Rules or otherwise," world's leading run-getter further explained. As far as his role in the Cricket Advisory Committee is concerned, Tendulkar mentioned that he was appointed as a member of the BCCI committee in 2015, which was years after his involvement with the Mumbai. "The Noticee was appointed to the panel of the Cricket Advisory Committee ("CAC") in the year 2015. The Hon'ble Ethics Officer will appreciate that the Noticee was named as the 'ICON' for Mumbai Indians much prior to his empanelment with the CAC ? which fact has always been in the public domain. "Accordingly, the BCCI aware of the Noticee's association with the Mumbai Indians Franchise at the time of his appointment to the CAC." Tendulkar, in his disclosure, further makes it clear that the role of an icon -- the one he is performing right now in the IPL franchise team -- in no way is a position either in the management or the governance of the franchise. "The Complaint wrongly assumes that the Noticee's association with the Mumbai Indians IPL Franchise (Franchise) is in the capacity of "governance", "management" or "employment"? thereby attracting a conflict under Rule 38 (4). "His role is limited to providing guidance to the Franchise team by sharing his insights, learnings and working closely with the younger members in the team to help them realise their true potential." On his reply to Gupta's question of him sitting in the team's 'dugout' -- place specified for players and support staff only, he termed the allegation as "absurd". "A mentor cannot be qualified as "management" of the Franchise. If the Complainant's absurd logic were to be applied, a physiotherapist, trainer or a masseur would also be qualified as "management" of the Franchise," Tendulkar responded, making it clear that he is answerable to none of the support staff. "It is also pertinent to note that the Mumbai Indians team has a head coach, who works side by side with coaches for specific disciplines such as bowling, batting etc. In ultimate coordination with the Director of Cricket Operations? none of whom the Noticee is answerable to or vice versa since his role is limited to that of providing guidance and motivation to the team." Tendulkar also made it clear that in case Ombudsman wants to "continue proceedings", he would "request for a personal hearing along with his legal representatives."

Receive no monetary benefit from Mumbai team: Sachin Tendulkar's letter to Ombudsman

Cricketing legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/9-famous-quotes-by-sachin-tendulkar-that-defined-his-cricketing-career-213100">Sachin Tendulkar</a> was served a notice by Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Ombudsman-cum-Ethics-Officer Justice DK Jain on Wednesday for his alleged 'conflict of interest' by serving as mentor of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a> franchise Mumbai team as well as being a member of Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).&nbsp;

A complaint was received by the Ombudsman under Article 39 of the rules and regulations of the BCCI, regarding certain acts allegedly constituting as a conflict of interest on Tendulkar's part.

The 46-year-old has been asked to file his written response supported by the duly executed affidavit on or before April 28th.

The complaint was filed by Sanjeev Gupta, a member of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA).

Justice Jain, in the notice to Tendulkar, wrote, "A complaint has been received by the Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India under Article 39 of the Rules and Regulations of the BCCI, regarding certain acts, allegedly constituting as "conflict of interest on your part".

"You may file your written response to the accompanying complaint, supported by duly executed affidavit, on or before 28th April 2019, with the Office of the Ethics Officer, BCCI, Mumbai for further proceedings in the matter," he added.

The ombudsman also stated that failure to respond will mean that no further chance to explain their point of view will be given.

"On your failure to respond to the present notice, the Ethics Officer shall be constrained to proceed in your absence, without giving any further opportunity of filing a response to the complaint, to you".

"A copy of this notice is also being sent to the BCCI to enable it to file its response to the accompanying complaint, in writing or before 28th April 2019, before the Ethics Officer," he added.

Earlier, former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly had to appear before Justice Jain for "conflict of interest" indicating his triple role as Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President, CAC Member as well as advisor of IPL franchise Delhi.

Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar was served a notice by Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Ombudsman-cum-Ethics-Officer Justice DK Jain on Wednesday for his alleged 'conflict of interest' by serving as mentor of Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai team as well as being a member of Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).

Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar was served a notice by Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Ombudsman-cum-Ethics-Officer Justice DK Jain on Wednesday for his alleged 'conflict of interest' by serving as mentor of Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai team as well as being a member of Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC). A complaint was received by the Ombudsman under Article 39 of the rules and regulations of the BCCI, regarding certain acts allegedly constituting as a conflict of interest on Tendulkar's part. The 46-year-old has been asked to file his written response supported by the duly executed affidavit on or before April 28th. The complaint was filed by Sanjeev Gupta, a member of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA). Justice Jain, in the notice to Tendulkar, wrote, "A complaint has been received by the Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India under Article 39 of the Rules and Regulations of the BCCI, regarding certain acts, allegedly constituting as "conflict of interest on your part". "You may file your written response to the accompanying complaint, supported by duly executed affidavit, on or before 28th April 2019, with the Office of the Ethics Officer, BCCI, Mumbai for further proceedings in the matter," he added. The ombudsman also stated that failure to respond will mean that no further chance to explain their point of view will be given. "On your failure to respond to the present notice, the Ethics Officer shall be constrained to proceed in your absence, without giving any further opportunity of filing a response to the complaint, to you". "A copy of this notice is also being sent to the BCCI to enable it to file its response to the accompanying complaint, in writing or before 28th April 2019, before the Ethics Officer," he added. Earlier, former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly had to appear before Justice Jain for "conflict of interest" indicating his triple role as Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President, CAC Member as well as advisor of IPL franchise Delhi.

BCCI Ombudsman issues notice to Sachin Tendulkar for 'conflict of interest'

9 famous quotes by Sachin Tendulkar that defined his cricketing career

Pakistan's newly selected opener Abid Ali on Sunday expressed confidence that despite strained political relations India's legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will give him a hug and a few batting tips at next month's World Cup.

The 31-year old has been a prolific run scorer in Pakistan's domestic cricket and broke into the national one-day squad for the World Cup after smashing a century on his debut against Australia in Dubai last month.

Abid is almost the same height as Tendulkar and bats in a similar style, but has a long way to match the Indian maestro's phenomenal record of most Test runs (15,921), most one-day runs (18,426), most Test hundreds (51) and most one-day centuries (49) to name a few.

"It's my wish and hope that I meet Sachin Tendulkar," Abid told a group of journalists.

"Definitely, I would like to hug him and I am sure that just like all great players meet youngsters I am sure that he will not turn me down.

"I am sure that if I want to get any information on cricket from Sachin, he will give a positive reply."

Abid said it will be a memorable day when he meets his idol.

"It will be the best day in my life when I meet him (Tendulkar) because he was one of the best batsmen.

"West Indian Viv Richards was also a great so I want to meet all the great players and learn from them," said Abid.

Tension between India and Pakistan rose to a near-war level since February 14 militant attacks on Indian side of Kashmir which left 44 army personnel killed.

India claimed it responded with an attack on a militant base in Balakot in the Pakistan side of Kashmir which was followed by Pakistan shutting down its airspace and later shooting down two Indian air force planes, capturing a pilot.

The Indian pilot was later released as a sign of goodwill and peace.

There were calls that India should not play the 2019 World Cup match with Pakistan scheduled for Manchester on June 16.&nbsp;

Despite the bitterness, players from both sides enjoy cordial relations.&nbsp;

Indian captain Virat Kohli presented his bat to Pakistan's fast bowler Mohammad Amir during the World Twenty20 in India three years ago as a sign of appreciation of his talent.

Abid said he had followed Tendulkar's batting style from his early days.

"Actually I have followed Sachin's technique from day one of my career and after watching him I tried to play like him. He was a great player, just like our own Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf.&nbsp;

"I adopt their good things and leave any bad thing. If I meet him I will try to talk to him and get some advice, mentally and technically, so that it helps me improve my batting."

Abid said he will do his best to be known as a good batsman.

"Tendulkar's record is awesome," said Abid of the Indian master who retired in 2013.&nbsp;

Pakistan's newly selected opener Abid Ali on Sunday expressed confidence that despite strained political relations India's legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will give him a hug and a few batting tips at next month's World Cup.

Pakistan's newly selected opener Abid Ali on Sunday expressed confidence that despite strained political relations India's legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will give him a hug and a few batting tips at next month's World Cup. The 31-year old has been a prolific run scorer in Pakistan's domestic cricket and broke into the national one-day squad for the World Cup after smashing a century on his debut against Australia in Dubai last month. Abid is almost the same height as Tendulkar and bats in a similar style, but has a long way to match the Indian maestro's phenomenal record of most Test runs (15,921), most one-day runs (18,426), most Test hundreds (51) and most one-day centuries (49) to name a few. "It's my wish and hope that I meet Sachin Tendulkar," Abid told a group of journalists. "Definitely, I would like to hug him and I am sure that just like all great players meet youngsters I am sure that he will not turn me down. "I am sure that if I want to get any information on cricket from Sachin, he will give a positive reply." Abid said it will be a memorable day when he meets his idol. "It will be the best day in my life when I meet him (Tendulkar) because he was one of the best batsmen. "West Indian Viv Richards was also a great so I want to meet all the great players and learn from them," said Abid. Tension between India and Pakistan rose to a near-war level since February 14 militant attacks on Indian side of Kashmir which left 44 army personnel killed. India claimed it responded with an attack on a militant base in Balakot in the Pakistan side of Kashmir which was followed by Pakistan shutting down its airspace and later shooting down two Indian air force planes, capturing a pilot. The Indian pilot was later released as a sign of goodwill and peace. There were calls that India should not play the 2019 World Cup match with Pakistan scheduled for Manchester on June 16. Despite the bitterness, players from both sides enjoy cordial relations. Indian captain Virat Kohli presented his bat to Pakistan's fast bowler Mohammad Amir during the World Twenty20 in India three years ago as a sign of appreciation of his talent. Abid said he had followed Tendulkar's batting style from his early days. "Actually I have followed Sachin's technique from day one of my career and after watching him I tried to play like him. He was a great player, just like our own Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf. "I adopt their good things and leave any bad thing. If I meet him I will try to talk to him and get some advice, mentally and technically, so that it helps me improve my batting." Abid said he will do his best to be known as a good batsman. "Tendulkar's record is awesome," said Abid of the Indian master who retired in 2013.

Pakistan's Abid Ali wants World Cup advice from Indian great Tendulkar

India's two batting greats Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag Tuesday relived the memories of the Men in Blue winning the 2011 ICC cricket World Cup.

It was exactly eight years ago when then skipper MS Dhoni registered a six-wicket win against Sri Lanka in the finals. On this day in 2011, India lifted the World Cup after a wait of 28 long years.&nbsp;

Taking to his Twitter handle, the Master Blaster cherished the memories, calling it the best moment of his cricketing life.

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🗓 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 2011...<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> finished it off in style! 🇮🇳🏆 <a href="https://t.co/ltEMF5sB2S">pic.twitter.com/ltEMF5sB2S</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1112909013019049984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Best moment of my cricketing life. @cricketworldcup @BCCI," Tendulkar tweeted along with a minute and 13 seconds long video.

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Best moment of my cricketing life.🏏 <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricketworldcup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/WByz1Y4cxX">pic.twitter.com/WByz1Y4cxX</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1113016350136385536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Tendulkar's World Cup-winning opening partner Sehwag also joined in saying: "WHAT A DAY! World Cup 2011. 8 years ago on this day, we lived a dream and the whole nation celebrated. How did you celebrate?"

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WHAT A DAY ! World Cup 2011. 
8 years ago on this day, we lived a dream and the whole nation celebrated. 
How did you celebrate ? <a href="https://t.co/PQadyMwimu">pic.twitter.com/PQadyMwimu</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1112956518801072129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 2019 World Cup will commence from May 30 to 14th July in England.&nbsp;

India's two batting greats Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag Tuesday relived the memories of the Men in Blue winning the 2011 ICC cricket World Cup. It was exactly eight years ago when then skipper MS Dhoni registered a six-wicket win against Sri Lanka in the finals.

India's two batting greats Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag Tuesday relived the memories of the Men in Blue winning the 2011 ICC cricket World Cup. It was exactly eight years ago when then skipper MS Dhoni registered a six-wicket win against Sri Lanka in the finals. On this day in 2011, India lifted the World Cup after a wait of 28 long years. Taking to his Twitter handle, the Master Blaster cherished the memories, calling it the best moment of his cricketing life. 🗓 #OnThisDay in 2011...@msdhoni finished it off in style! 🇮🇳🏆 pic.twitter.com/ltEMF5sB2S — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) April 2, 2019 × "Best moment of my cricketing life. @cricketworldcup @BCCI," Tendulkar tweeted along with a minute and 13 seconds long video. Best moment of my cricketing life.🏏 @cricketworldcup @BCCI pic.twitter.com/WByz1Y4cxX — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 2, 2019 × Tendulkar's World Cup-winning opening partner Sehwag also joined in saying: "WHAT A DAY! World Cup 2011. 8 years ago on this day, we lived a dream and the whole nation celebrated. How did you celebrate?" WHAT A DAY ! World Cup 2011. 8 years ago on this day, we lived a dream and the whole nation celebrated. How did you celebrate ? pic.twitter.com/PQadyMwimu — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 2, 2019 × The 2019 World Cup will commence from May 30 to 14th July in England.

Nostalgia! Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag recall 2011 World Cup win

India woke up to the news that the Indian Air Force had launched a pre-emptive airstrike across the Line of Control (LOC) early on Tuesday, and destroyed several terror camps set up near the borderline.

Twelve Mirage 2000 fighter jets dropped 1,000 kg bombs on the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed camps.

The airstrike comes just twelve days after the deadliest terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's three-decade of militancy, at Pulwama, in which at least 40 CRPF personnel were killed.&nbsp;

Following the news, Indian citizens celebrated the reply given to Pakistan for providing safe havens to terrorists. &nbsp;

Several big sports personalities including Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Mahesh Bhupathi, Saina Nehwal and others also took to Twitter to praise the IAF.&nbsp;

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Big salute to our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianAirForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianAirForce</a> 🙏🇮🇳.... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaStrikesBack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaStrikesBack</a> .. Jai Hind
— Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina/status/1100274981974335489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Our niceness should never be comprehended as our weakness. 
I salute the IAF, Jai Hind 🇮🇳
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1100318212846161920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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INDIA 🇮🇳 💪 👊👊👊 <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a> PROUD OF YOU AS ALWAYS <a href="https://t.co/1eARl98egz">pic.twitter.com/1eARl98egz</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1100329234638217216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Saluting the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianAirForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianAirForce</a> fighters for their valor, courage and timely action. 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/CNPmH28mnz">https://t.co/CNPmH28mnz</a>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1100298585046962176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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My salute to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAF</a> for showing great courage in the face of adversity. A fitting reply to cowardice! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JaiHind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JaiHind</a> 🇮🇳
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1100293010443698176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Hats off to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianAirForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianAirForce</a> for their strike against terror. Every Indian is proud of you! Jai Hind! 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaStrikesBack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaStrikesBack</a>
— Kidambi Srikanth (@srikidambi) <a href="https://twitter.com/srikidambi/status/1100284211339059200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Badiyaaaaa <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianAirforce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianAirforce</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaStrikesAgain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaStrikesAgain</a> 💪😼
— PRANNOY HS (@PRANNOYHSPRI) <a href="https://twitter.com/PRANNOYHSPRI/status/1100291048545366016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India struck the biggest camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and a "very large number" of terrorists were eliminated, said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

India woke up to the news that the Indian Air Force had launched a pre-emptive airstrike across the Line of Control (LOC) early on Tuesday, and destroyed several terror camps set up near the borderline.

India woke up to the news that the Indian Air Force had launched a pre-emptive airstrike across the Line of Control (LOC) early on Tuesday, and destroyed several terror camps set up near the borderline. Twelve Mirage 2000 fighter jets dropped 1,000 kg bombs on the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed camps. The airstrike comes just twelve days after the deadliest terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's three-decade of militancy, at Pulwama, in which at least 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Following the news, Indian citizens celebrated the reply given to Pakistan for providing safe havens to terrorists. Several big sports personalities including Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Mahesh Bhupathi, Saina Nehwal and others also took to Twitter to praise the IAF. Big salute to our #IndianAirForce 🙏🇮🇳.... #IndiaStrikesBack .. Jai Hind — Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) February 26, 2019 × Our niceness should never be comprehended as our weakness. I salute the IAF, Jai Hind 🇮🇳 — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 26, 2019 × INDIA 🇮🇳 💪 👊👊👊 @IAF_MCC PROUD OF YOU AS ALWAYS pic.twitter.com/1eARl98egz — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) February 26, 2019 × Saluting the #IndianAirForce fighters for their valor, courage and timely action. 🙏 https://t.co/CNPmH28mnz — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) February 26, 2019 × My salute to #IAF for showing great courage in the face of adversity. A fitting reply to cowardice! #JaiHind 🇮🇳 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) February 26, 2019 × Hats off to the #IndianAirForce for their strike against terror. Every Indian is proud of you! Jai Hind! 🇮🇳#IndiaStrikesBack — Kidambi Srikanth (@srikidambi) February 26, 2019 × Badiyaaaaa #IndianAirforce #IndiaStrikesAgain 💪😼 — PRANNOY HS (@PRANNOYHSPRI) February 26, 2019 × India struck the biggest camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and a "very large number" of terrorists were eliminated, said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

Sportspersons salute Indian Air Force after strike on terror camps in Pakistan

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar Sunday reverted to all the trolls and statements trying to instigate differences with former captain Sourav Ganguly over the cricket match between India and Pakistan in the upcoming ICC World Cup.&nbsp;

Taking to his twitter handle, Sachin urged his friend and former teammate Sourav not to justify his statement.

As per several media reports, Ganguly had reacted on Tendulkar's comments on the World Cup match between India and Pakistan, saying he would rather want the title than worrying about losing two points.

Sourav's comments came after Sachin backed the game, despite the recent Pulwama terror attack that killed at least 40 Indian soldiers, and strongly echoed that he would hate to give Pakistan two points and help them advance in the tournament. &nbsp;

“India has always come up trumps against Pakistan in the World Cup. Time to beat them once again. Would personally hate to give them two points and help them in the tournament,” said Tendulkar

But earlier in the day, Sourav also took to his Twitter to justify his statement saying his comments 'were not against Sachin'. Ganguly further stressed that Sachin has been his friend for last 25 years and will be in future also.

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Never felt the need for you to justify. Strongly believe that all of us want what’s best for our nation. <a href="https://t.co/zUZYBVlCdh">https://t.co/zUZYBVlCdh</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1099684997705785345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Tendulkar had endorsed Sunil Gavaskar's view that India would be better off beating Pakistan in the World Cup than forfeiting the June 16, while, Ganguly had called for severing all sporting ties with the neighbouring country. 
&nbsp;

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar Sunday reverted to all the trolls and statements trying to instigate differences with former captain Sourav Ganguly over the cricket match between India and Pakistan in the upcoming ICC World Cup.

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar Sunday reverted to all the trolls and statements trying to instigate differences with former captain Sourav Ganguly over the cricket match between India and Pakistan in the upcoming ICC World Cup. Taking to his twitter handle, Sachin urged his friend and former teammate Sourav not to justify his statement. As per several media reports, Ganguly had reacted on Tendulkar's comments on the World Cup match between India and Pakistan, saying he would rather want the title than worrying about losing two points. Sourav's comments came after Sachin backed the game, despite the recent Pulwama terror attack that killed at least 40 Indian soldiers, and strongly echoed that he would hate to give Pakistan two points and help them advance in the tournament. “India has always come up trumps against Pakistan in the World Cup. Time to beat them once again. Would personally hate to give them two points and help them in the tournament,” said Tendulkar But earlier in the day, Sourav also took to his Twitter to justify his statement saying his comments 'were not against Sachin'. Ganguly further stressed that Sachin has been his friend for last 25 years and will be in future also. Never felt the need for you to justify. Strongly believe that all of us want what’s best for our nation. https://t.co/zUZYBVlCdh — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 24, 2019 × Tendulkar had endorsed Sunil Gavaskar's view that India would be better off beating Pakistan in the World Cup than forfeiting the June 16, while, Ganguly had called for severing all sporting ties with the neighbouring country.

India vs Pakistan: Sachin Tendulkar shuts down trolls over Sourav Ganguly's comment, urges him not to 'justify'

Sachin Tendulkar has no hesitation in terming India as favourites going into the World Cup but what makes him happier is the team's ability to be competitive "in any part of the world and on any surface".&nbsp;

The Indian ODI team under Virat Kohli has won three bilateral away series against South Africa (5-1), Australia (2-1) and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-odi-india-beat-new-zealand-by-35-runs-win-series-4-1-194799">New Zealand (4-1)</a> with only defeat coming against England.&nbsp;

"I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface," Tendulkar told PTI in an interview on Sunday.&nbsp;

"As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favourites," said Tendulkar.&nbsp;

England, the World Cup hosts, had a torrid time against West Indies in Tests but the ODI outfit will be a different proposition on their home turf.&nbsp;

"It's all about getting the early momentum. My judgement on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse," he opined.&nbsp;

New Zealand may have been outplayed in the just-concluded ODI series but can prove to be a handful in the mega event.&nbsp;

"I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it's a good unit, one needs to be on their toes," he said.&nbsp;

The suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be back in the international fold on March 29 and Australia will be as dangerous as any other team.&nbsp;

"I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side," said Tendulkar.&nbsp;

But a few bad overs could spell doom for them as it happened during the recent series.&nbsp;

"But in one-day matches, it's such that when you have a couple of bad hours, 50 per cent of the match gets slipped away."&nbsp;

In Kolkata for marathon flag off, Tendulkar spoke about the young athletes who have done well for the nation in recent times.&nbsp;

He hailed the recent success of women athletes like Hima Das, Dutee Chand and Swapna Barman at the Asian Games and said the sport has proved to be an excellent tool for women empowerment.&nbsp;

He referred to India's Rio Olympics 2016 performance where India had won only two medals, both of them by women -- wrestler Sakshi Malik (bronze) and PV Sindhu (silver) in badminton.&nbsp;

"It's been fantastic through sports. Now for a number of years, we have seen women have brought glory to our nation. I see parents being more flexible in their thought process now. It's not just about becoming a doctor, a lawyer or engineer. There are a multiple things you can do today," the cricket icon said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"That's how it should be. It's great for India. I always believed that the platforms provided for both men and women should be equal. This starts from the grassroots level. It should start right from the bottom and from thereon there should be equal opportunities for both," he said.&nbsp;

Tendulkar went on to fondly remember his childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar who passed away at the age of 87 last month.&nbsp;

"I hate using this 'was' word that comes to him. Losing Achrekar Sir will always be a permanent void.&nbsp;

"It was a wonderful time with him, that is how I would want to remember him. Wherever I'm in my life right now it's because of him and my family members. He was like family," he signed off.

Sachin Tendulkar has no hesitation in terming India as favourites going into the World Cup but what makes him happier is the team's ability to be competitive "in any part of the world and on any surface".

Sachin Tendulkar has no hesitation in terming India as favourites going into the World Cup but what makes him happier is the team's ability to be competitive "in any part of the world and on any surface". The Indian ODI team under Virat Kohli has won three bilateral away series against South Africa (5-1), Australia (2-1) and New Zealand (4-1) with only defeat coming against England. "I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface," Tendulkar told PTI in an interview on Sunday. "As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favourites," said Tendulkar. England, the World Cup hosts, had a torrid time against West Indies in Tests but the ODI outfit will be a different proposition on their home turf. "It's all about getting the early momentum. My judgement on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse," he opined. New Zealand may have been outplayed in the just-concluded ODI series but can prove to be a handful in the mega event. "I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it's a good unit, one needs to be on their toes," he said. The suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be back in the international fold on March 29 and Australia will be as dangerous as any other team. "I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side," said Tendulkar. But a few bad overs could spell doom for them as it happened during the recent series. "But in one-day matches, it's such that when you have a couple of bad hours, 50 per cent of the match gets slipped away." In Kolkata for marathon flag off, Tendulkar spoke about the young athletes who have done well for the nation in recent times. He hailed the recent success of women athletes like Hima Das, Dutee Chand and Swapna Barman at the Asian Games and said the sport has proved to be an excellent tool for women empowerment. He referred to India's Rio Olympics 2016 performance where India had won only two medals, both of them by women -- wrestler Sakshi Malik (bronze) and PV Sindhu (silver) in badminton. "It's been fantastic through sports. Now for a number of years, we have seen women have brought glory to our nation. I see parents being more flexible in their thought process now. It's not just about becoming a doctor, a lawyer or engineer. There are a multiple things you can do today," the cricket icon said. "That's how it should be. It's great for India. I always believed that the platforms provided for both men and women should be equal. This starts from the grassroots level. It should start right from the bottom and from thereon there should be equal opportunities for both," he said. Tendulkar went on to fondly remember his childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar who passed away at the age of 87 last month. "I hate using this 'was' word that comes to him. Losing Achrekar Sir will always be a permanent void. "It was a wonderful time with him, that is how I would want to remember him. Wherever I'm in my life right now it's because of him and my family members. He was like family," he signed off.

Indian team competitive in any part of world and on any surface: Sachin Tendulkar

Nepalese cricketer Rohit Paudel became the youngest male player to hit an international half-century at the age of 16 years and 146 days. With this feat, Paudel broke batting great Sachin Tendulkar's 29-year-old record.&nbsp;

Paudel is, however, some way off the overall record for all international cricket as South African women's player Johmari Logtenburg had scored the fifties in both Test and ODI cricket as a 14-year-old.&nbsp;

Tendulkar had hit his maiden international fifty at 16 years and 213 days in a Test match against Pakistan in Faisalabad in 1989.&nbsp;

While in ODI, the mark was set by Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi, who smashed a 37-ball century which was a record at the time, aged 16 years and 217 days in his maiden international innings against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Paudel had previously come close to setting a world record when he made his ODI debut aged 15 years and 335 days back in August 2018, making him the fourth-youngest man in history to do so.&nbsp;

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At the age of just 16 years and 146 days, Nepal's Rohit Paudel today became the youngest man to hit an international half-century, beating the likes of <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAfridiOfficial</a>! 🇳🇵 🙌 
 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/lRo5UTfuFd">https://t.co/lRo5UTfuFd</a> <a href="https://t.co/qsqZQDYX5y">pic.twitter.com/qsqZQDYX5y</a>
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UAE are in a spot of trouble! <a href="https://twitter.com/Sompal_Kami?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sompal_Kami</a> claimed their first four wickets in the first 6.1 overs, and now a triple-wicket maiden from <a href="https://twitter.com/IamSandeep25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamSandeep25</a> has them seven down - 57/7 in pursuit of Nepal's 242/9. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAEvNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAEvNEP</a> LIVESTREAM: <a href="https://t.co/MZIRdj8a15">https://t.co/MZIRdj8a15</a> <a href="https://t.co/bzrj27A7Om">pic.twitter.com/bzrj27A7Om</a>
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Nepal win to level the series 1-1! 
 
Sompal Kami (5/33) and Sandeep Lamichhane (4/24) run riot to dismiss UAE for 97 after Rohit Paudel's record-breaking half-century helped set up a 145-run victory in Dubai!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAEvNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAEvNEP</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/ItZoiVJZYv">https://t.co/ItZoiVJZYv</a> <a href="https://t.co/4ZQOCVsGiU">pic.twitter.com/4ZQOCVsGiU</a>
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Paudel, Kami and Lamichhane starred as Nepal took the ODI series against the UAE to a decider with a big 145-run victory in Dubai.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAEvNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAEvNEP</a> REPORT 👇<a href="https://t.co/bWNWilOQjR">https://t.co/bWNWilOQjR</a> <a href="https://t.co/FwX2dHH0xD">pic.twitter.com/FwX2dHH0xD</a>
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With the help of Paudel's 58-ball 55, Nepal beat United Arab Emirates by 145 runs in an ODI at Dubai.&nbsp;

Nepalese cricketer Rohit Paudel became the youngest male player to hit an international half-century at the age of 16 years and 146 days. With this feat, Paudel broke batting great Sachin Tendulkar's 29-year-old record.

Nepalese cricketer Rohit Paudel became the youngest male player to hit an international half-century at the age of 16 years and 146 days. With this feat, Paudel broke batting great Sachin Tendulkar's 29-year-old record. Paudel is, however, some way off the overall record for all international cricket as South African women's player Johmari Logtenburg had scored the fifties in both Test and ODI cricket as a 14-year-old. Tendulkar had hit his maiden international fifty at 16 years and 213 days in a Test match against Pakistan in Faisalabad in 1989. While in ODI, the mark was set by Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi, who smashed a 37-ball century which was a record at the time, aged 16 years and 217 days in his maiden international innings against Sri Lanka. Paudel had previously come close to setting a world record when he made his ODI debut aged 15 years and 335 days back in August 2018, making him the fourth-youngest man in history to do so. At the age of just 16 years and 146 days, Nepal's Rohit Paudel today became the youngest man to hit an international half-century, beating the likes of @sachin_rt and @SAfridiOfficial! 🇳🇵 🙌 ➡️ https://t.co/lRo5UTfuFd pic.twitter.com/qsqZQDYX5y — ICC (@ICC) January 26, 2019 × UAE are in a spot of trouble! @Sompal_Kami claimed their first four wickets in the first 6.1 overs, and now a triple-wicket maiden from @IamSandeep25 has them seven down - 57/7 in pursuit of Nepal's 242/9. #UAEvNEP LIVESTREAM: https://t.co/MZIRdj8a15 pic.twitter.com/bzrj27A7Om — ICC (@ICC) January 26, 2019 × Nepal win to level the series 1-1! Sompal Kami (5/33) and Sandeep Lamichhane (4/24) run riot to dismiss UAE for 97 after Rohit Paudel's record-breaking half-century helped set up a 145-run victory in Dubai!#UAEvNEP scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/ItZoiVJZYv pic.twitter.com/4ZQOCVsGiU — ICC (@ICC) January 26, 2019 × Paudel, Kami and Lamichhane starred as Nepal took the ODI series against the UAE to a decider with a big 145-run victory in Dubai.#UAEvNEP REPORT 👇https://t.co/bWNWilOQjR pic.twitter.com/FwX2dHH0xD — ICC (@ICC) January 26, 2019 × With the help of Paudel's 58-ball 55, Nepal beat United Arab Emirates by 145 runs in an ODI at Dubai.

Nepalese cricketer breaks Sachin Tendulkar's 29-year-old record

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday unveiled a biography on Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar titled &nbsp;'The Small Wonder' at an event in Mumbai.

The book, which comes with inputs from her coach Bishweshwar Nandi, chronicles the life of Karmakar from Agartala to becoming a world-famous gymnast, who finished fourth in the finals of the vault event at the Rio Olympics back in 2016.&nbsp;

Praising the Indian gymnast, Sachin said that she has 'not only left an impression but also motivated thousands of youngsters' to go out and do something special for our country.&nbsp;

The book has been co-authored by sports journalists Digvijay Singh Deo and Vimal Mohan among the other contributors.

Speaking about her future plans at the event, Karmakar said she was preparing for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics qualification.&nbsp;

"I will be competing in Olympic qualification event in March. Now the criteria for getting qualification has changed drastically. This criteria is very tough for the countries like us, who are not developed much in gymnastics. But, I am preparing and trying at my best (to get that qualification)."

In 2018, the 25-year-old from Tripura became the first Indian gymnast to win a gold medal at a global event, when she finished first in the vault event of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Challenge Cup at Mersin, Turkey.

Karmakar is one of the only five women who have successfully landed the Produnova, which is regarded as the most difficult vault currently performed in women's gymnastics.

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday unveiled a biography on Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar titled 'The Small Wonder' at an event in Mumbai. The book, which comes with inputs from her coach Bishweshwar Nandi, chronicles the life of Karmakar from Agartala to becoming a world-famous gymnast, who finished fourth in the finals of the vault event at the Rio Olympics back in 2016.

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday unveiled a biography on Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar titled 'The Small Wonder' at an event in Mumbai. The book, which comes with inputs from her coach Bishweshwar Nandi, chronicles the life of Karmakar from Agartala to becoming a world-famous gymnast, who finished fourth in the finals of the vault event at the Rio Olympics back in 2016. Praising the Indian gymnast, Sachin said that she has 'not only left an impression but also motivated thousands of youngsters' to go out and do something special for our country. The book has been co-authored by sports journalists Digvijay Singh Deo and Vimal Mohan among the other contributors. Speaking about her future plans at the event, Karmakar said she was preparing for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics qualification. "I will be competing in Olympic qualification event in March. Now the criteria for getting qualification has changed drastically. This criteria is very tough for the countries like us, who are not developed much in gymnastics. But, I am preparing and trying at my best (to get that qualification)." In 2018, the 25-year-old from Tripura became the first Indian gymnast to win a gold medal at a global event, when she finished first in the vault event of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Challenge Cup at Mersin, Turkey. Karmakar is one of the only five women who have successfully landed the Produnova, which is regarded as the most difficult vault currently performed in women's gymnastics.

Dipa Karmakar is 'inspiration' for youngsters, says Tendulkar at Gymnast's autobiography launch

Sachin Tendulkar launches biography of Gymnast Dipa Karmakar in Mumbai

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday praised the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-security-guard-refuses-to-identify-roger-federer-stops-him-from-entering-locker-room-without-id-191387">security guard at the Australian Open, who stopped Swiss tennis star Roger Federer </a>from entering the locker room without his identity card. &nbsp;

Tendulkar also lauded the way the 20-time Grand Slam champion reacted to the situation, respecting the sentinel who was just doing his duty. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Taking to his Twitter handle, Sachin wrote, "Good to watch the security officer doing his job well at the @AustralianOpen. The manner in which @rogerfederer reacted was commendable as well. Such actions are not common today and they just increase the respect people have for great athletes like Roger."

A video the incident went viral on the social media yesterday, which showed the Swiss double defending champion stalled at the entrance for lacking his tournament accreditation.

The commendable part of the incident was there was no argument from the 37-year-old as he stopped and waited patiently for his entourage to catch up with him.

The guard allowed Federer to enter the locker room after one of his team mate flashed the badge at the security guard.

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Even <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> needs his accreditation 😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/Eurosport_UK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eurosport_UK</a>) 
 
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The World No 3 is eyeing a record seventh Melbourne Park title and third in a row.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday praised the security guard at the Australian Open, who stopped Swiss tennis star Roger Federer from entering the locker room without his identity card.

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday praised the security guard at the Australian Open, who stopped Swiss tennis star Roger Federer from entering the locker room without his identity card. Tendulkar also lauded the way the 20-time Grand Slam champion reacted to the situation, respecting the sentinel who was just doing his duty. Taking to his Twitter handle, Sachin wrote, "Good to watch the security officer doing his job well at the @AustralianOpen. The manner in which @rogerfederer reacted was commendable as well. Such actions are not common today and they just increase the respect people have for great athletes like Roger." A video the incident went viral on the social media yesterday, which showed the Swiss double defending champion stalled at the entrance for lacking his tournament accreditation. The commendable part of the incident was there was no argument from the 37-year-old as he stopped and waited patiently for his entourage to catch up with him. The guard allowed Federer to enter the locker room after one of his team mate flashed the badge at the security guard. Even @rogerfederer needs his accreditation 😂#AusOpen (via @Eurosport_UK) pic.twitter.com/oZETUaygSE — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 19, 2019 × The World No 3 is eyeing a record seventh Melbourne Park title and third in a row.

Sachin Tendulkar praises security guard who stopped Roger Federer from entering locker room without ID

Australia coach Justin Langer said he has never seen a batsman concentrate as hard as India's Test star <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cheteshwar+Pujara">Cheteshwar Pujara</a>, who beats even the great Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in that aspect.&nbsp;

India won the four-match Test <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">series 2-1 against Australia</a> with Pujara fetching the man of the series award with a total of 521 runs, including three centuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking for the first time since the visiting team's maiden Test triumph on Australian soil, Langer said Pujara's concentration was a challenge for his bowlers.&nbsp;

"...I have never seen a batsman watch the ball as closely as he (Pujara) does, and that includes Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. His concentration was a challenge. And we have to keep getting better just like him, all our batsmen and bowlers," Langer said.&nbsp;

Langer said his bowlers were stretched to the limit in the Test series, especially in Melbourne and Sydney.&nbsp;

"The guys are working very hard and they are going okay. The first innings in Melbourne and Sydney, honestly, sucked the life out of us because when you are in the field for two days, with only one spin bowler, that takes energy out of the group," he said ahead of ODI series starting Saturday here.&nbsp;

"We have the best spinner and three outstanding pace bowlers, against the outstanding Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli. So it takes some mental and physical energy out.&nbsp;

"There are new players and new staff for these three games, so that brings new energy to the group...," he added.&nbsp;

Australia's fast bowlers drew all-round criticism for failing to be as effective as India's pace battery but Langer backed them. The home team will be missing Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in the ODI series, who have been rested to manage workloads.&nbsp;

"...They copped some pretty strong criticism throughout the series. But on two very flat wickets they kept running in hard and having a go and in this instance they were beaten by some a brilliant Indian side. We were beaten by a better side," he conceded.&nbsp;

Langer said the challenge is ever present for his side despite a change in format as the Indian ODI team is just as strong as the Test team. Both sides get down to their respective World Cup preparations with the upcoming series.&nbsp;

"After losing in 2001, in 2004 when we finally beat India in India at Nagpur, without doubt that was the Everest moment of my cricket career. So I am sure for most of the Indian players, especially Virat Kohli, it feels the same but when you are at the top, things are on the way down," he warned the visitors.&nbsp;

"They will be very buoyed and excited but we plan to fight for every thing. They have a good one-day team and we are up against it. Let's hope we are better than we were in the Test series," Langer said. 
The Australian coach felt his side has the talent but just needs to apply itself a bit more.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's the exciting thing, when you lose a series to India, its disappointing but it helps you get better and it's the same where we are at the moment.&nbsp;

"It is an unbelievable opportunity for us in Tests and ODI cricket to get better and we have to do that. We have the talent, now we have to look at the experience and ability, and aspire to do it," he said.&nbsp;

Australia have made an addition to their squad with batsman Ashton Turner coming in for Mitchell Marsh who is suffering from gastroenteritis and is not available for the first ODI.&nbsp;

Australia have recalled off-spinner Nathan Lyon to their ODI squad, and Langer said that this is a move keeping the World Cup in mind, but didn't commit if the hosts would play two spinners in the first match of the series itself.&nbsp;

"Lyon's record in white ball cricket is very good and he is the best spinner in the world. So it would be a waste of opportunity if we don't play him in white ball cricket particularly with the World Cup coming up.&nbsp;

"He is also a gun fieldsman. He is nice and fit, and a gun fielder. I cannot wait to see how he goes and he is also excited about it," he said.&nbsp; 
In addition, he spoke about Australia's World Cup preparations, and how they are close to finding the group of players in a bid to retain their 2015 title this summer.&nbsp;

"No one ever feels locked in. We have a clear plan how we will play our one-day cricket between now and the World Cup.&nbsp;

"It will be a great opportunity for Lyon and for our batsmen, as we have 10-15 games before the World Cup. So we will pick our (final) side after that. As always we will look to prepare well and win the World Cup," he said.&nbsp;

"In the next few months we will have a group of players together and build towards the World Cup, for which we have a clear idea of who we would like to have but we will have to wait," he signed off.

Australia coach Justin Langer said he has never seen a batsman concentrate as hard as India's Test star Cheteshwar Pujara, who beats even the great Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in that aspect.

Australia coach Justin Langer said he has never seen a batsman concentrate as hard as India's Test star Cheteshwar Pujara, who beats even the great Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in that aspect. India won the four-match Test series 2-1 against Australia with Pujara fetching the man of the series award with a total of 521 runs, including three centuries. Speaking for the first time since the visiting team's maiden Test triumph on Australian soil, Langer said Pujara's concentration was a challenge for his bowlers. "...I have never seen a batsman watch the ball as closely as he (Pujara) does, and that includes Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. His concentration was a challenge. And we have to keep getting better just like him, all our batsmen and bowlers," Langer said. Langer said his bowlers were stretched to the limit in the Test series, especially in Melbourne and Sydney. "The guys are working very hard and they are going okay. The first innings in Melbourne and Sydney, honestly, sucked the life out of us because when you are in the field for two days, with only one spin bowler, that takes energy out of the group," he said ahead of ODI series starting Saturday here. "We have the best spinner and three outstanding pace bowlers, against the outstanding Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli. So it takes some mental and physical energy out. "There are new players and new staff for these three games, so that brings new energy to the group...," he added. Australia's fast bowlers drew all-round criticism for failing to be as effective as India's pace battery but Langer backed them. The home team will be missing Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in the ODI series, who have been rested to manage workloads. "...They copped some pretty strong criticism throughout the series. But on two very flat wickets they kept running in hard and having a go and in this instance they were beaten by some a brilliant Indian side. We were beaten by a better side," he conceded. Langer said the challenge is ever present for his side despite a change in format as the Indian ODI team is just as strong as the Test team. Both sides get down to their respective World Cup preparations with the upcoming series. "After losing in 2001, in 2004 when we finally beat India in India at Nagpur, without doubt that was the Everest moment of my cricket career. So I am sure for most of the Indian players, especially Virat Kohli, it feels the same but when you are at the top, things are on the way down," he warned the visitors. "They will be very buoyed and excited but we plan to fight for every thing. They have a good one-day team and we are up against it. Let's hope we are better than we were in the Test series," Langer said. The Australian coach felt his side has the talent but just needs to apply itself a bit more. "It's the exciting thing, when you lose a series to India, its disappointing but it helps you get better and it's the same where we are at the moment. "It is an unbelievable opportunity for us in Tests and ODI cricket to get better and we have to do that. We have the talent, now we have to look at the experience and ability, and aspire to do it," he said. Australia have made an addition to their squad with batsman Ashton Turner coming in for Mitchell Marsh who is suffering from gastroenteritis and is not available for the first ODI. Australia have recalled off-spinner Nathan Lyon to their ODI squad, and Langer said that this is a move keeping the World Cup in mind, but didn't commit if the hosts would play two spinners in the first match of the series itself. "Lyon's record in white ball cricket is very good and he is the best spinner in the world. So it would be a waste of opportunity if we don't play him in white ball cricket particularly with the World Cup coming up. "He is also a gun fieldsman. He is nice and fit, and a gun fielder. I cannot wait to see how he goes and he is also excited about it," he said. In addition, he spoke about Australia's World Cup preparations, and how they are close to finding the group of players in a bid to retain their 2015 title this summer. "No one ever feels locked in. We have a clear plan how we will play our one-day cricket between now and the World Cup. "It will be a great opportunity for Lyon and for our batsmen, as we have 10-15 games before the World Cup. So we will pick our (final) side after that. As always we will look to prepare well and win the World Cup," he said. "In the next few months we will have a group of players together and build towards the World Cup, for which we have a clear idea of who we would like to have but we will have to wait," he signed off.

Cheteshwar Pujara's concentration better than Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid: Justin Langer

While <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Virat+Kohli">Virat Kohli</a>'s historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Sachin+Tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a>?

Kohli, the world's top-ranked batsman in all three formats of the game, on Monday led India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia, after seven decades of trying.

Already known as "King Kohli" before the tour, there are those who say the Indian captain deserves promotion.

But his Test teammates Hardik Pandya and Lokesh Rahul were mercilessly trolled on Indian social media after saying on a TV chat show that Kohli was a better batsman than Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-by-far-my-best-achievement-says-kohli-after-maiden-test-victory-in-australia-188699">'By far my best achievement,' says Kohli after maiden Test victory in Australia</a>

The pair were blasted for being "pathetic" and "cringeworthy" by Twitter users in a mass tirade.&nbsp;

While Tendulkar has maintained a god-like status in the Indian public's eye since his retirement in 2013, he never managed to guide India to a Test series win in Australia.&nbsp;

Kohli, 30, was born a year before Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989. He is the run machine of modern cricket with more 19,000 runs in Test, one-day and T20 games. He last year became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in 50-over internationals -- beating Tendulkar's record.

Kohli's biographer Vijay Lokapally said there should not be a comparison between players of different generations, but hailed Kohli's achievements.

"As a captain he sets an example with his fitness, his batting and his leadership," Lokapally told AFP.

"His batting is absolutely top class. He doesn't need a certificate from anyone. And there is no better person to lead the Indian team in any format."

He added: "As far as comparisons go, I think it's unfair to disregard the efforts of former players like Vijay Hazare or Sunil Gavaskar and compare eras.

"Gavaskar was a star of his times, Tendulkar ruled his era and Kohli is the new generation star. So they are all champions in their own place."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pandya and Rahul set off hostilities with Tendulkar fans in their off-the-cuff comments on Indian television aired Sunday.

Tendulkar had been named as the best batsman by a string of luminaries including Don Bradman, Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar, one Twitter user noted in response. "Every true cricket fan knows who is best!"

Praise from Pakistan

Few doubt however that Kohli has given the world's number one Test nation an even stronger dominance by completing the 2-1 series win in Australia.

World Cup-winning Kohli rated the triumph his "best achievement" so far, and Indian papers hailed the captain for his "Thunder Down Under".

The Times of India newspaper headlined its report "The Reign Men", while the Hindustan Times said "This win will make India invincible", headlining the opinion of their columnist Ian Chappell.

Even Pakistan's prime minister Imran Khan congratulated India on their historic achievement.&nbsp;

"Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," the former cricketer wrote on his party's Twitter account.

India coach Ravi Shastri said Kohli's leadership skills had "made all the difference" but sought to shoot down all references to deities.

"This is not a team of gods and demigods, seniors or juniors. This is an Indian cricket team that will readily jump off a cliff to win a match for the country," said Shastri.

While Virat Kohli's historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god Sachin Tendulkar?

While Virat Kohli's historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god Sachin Tendulkar? Kohli, the world's top-ranked batsman in all three formats of the game, on Monday led India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia, after seven decades of trying. Already known as "King Kohli" before the tour, there are those who say the Indian captain deserves promotion. But his Test teammates Hardik Pandya and Lokesh Rahul were mercilessly trolled on Indian social media after saying on a TV chat show that Kohli was a better batsman than Tendulkar. Watch: 'By far my best achievement,' says Kohli after maiden Test victory in Australia The pair were blasted for being "pathetic" and "cringeworthy" by Twitter users in a mass tirade. While Tendulkar has maintained a god-like status in the Indian public's eye since his retirement in 2013, he never managed to guide India to a Test series win in Australia. Kohli, 30, was born a year before Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989. He is the run machine of modern cricket with more 19,000 runs in Test, one-day and T20 games. He last year became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in 50-over internationals -- beating Tendulkar's record. Kohli's biographer Vijay Lokapally said there should not be a comparison between players of different generations, but hailed Kohli's achievements. "As a captain he sets an example with his fitness, his batting and his leadership," Lokapally told AFP. "His batting is absolutely top class. He doesn't need a certificate from anyone. And there is no better person to lead the Indian team in any format." He added: "As far as comparisons go, I think it's unfair to disregard the efforts of former players like Vijay Hazare or Sunil Gavaskar and compare eras. "Gavaskar was a star of his times, Tendulkar ruled his era and Kohli is the new generation star. So they are all champions in their own place." Pandya and Rahul set off hostilities with Tendulkar fans in their off-the-cuff comments on Indian television aired Sunday. Tendulkar had been named as the best batsman by a string of luminaries including Don Bradman, Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar, one Twitter user noted in response. "Every true cricket fan knows who is best!" Praise from Pakistan Few doubt however that Kohli has given the world's number one Test nation an even stronger dominance by completing the 2-1 series win in Australia. World Cup-winning Kohli rated the triumph his "best achievement" so far, and Indian papers hailed the captain for his "Thunder Down Under". The Times of India newspaper headlined its report "The Reign Men", while the Hindustan Times said "This win will make India invincible", headlining the opinion of their columnist Ian Chappell. Even Pakistan's prime minister Imran Khan congratulated India on their historic achievement. "Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," the former cricketer wrote on his party's Twitter account. India coach Ravi Shastri said Kohli's leadership skills had "made all the difference" but sought to shoot down all references to deities. "This is not a team of gods and demigods, seniors or juniors. This is an Indian cricket team that will readily jump off a cliff to win a match for the country," said Shastri.

Is Virat Kohli really better than Sachin Tendulkar? Nation wants to know

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