Finally, I think Sachin Tendulkar has made it clear to everybody — media, former cricketers, officials — that it is foolish to ask that same irritating question: why isn’t he retiring? I will repeat what I have been saying for so long, especially last year when Sachin was going through a rough patch: he knows his strengths and limitations and one should leave that vital decision to him.

The tri-series in Malaysia and the Challenger Trophy have shown that Tendulkar is back to his old self. Just recall the way he stepped out to hit McGrath. For me, that brought back memories of his similar assault on the Aussie pacer during the Champions Trophy in 2001. He has been playing cricket for such a long time and has suffered a number of injuries, so there are bound to be ups and downs but there is no way one can write him off. The other day, I was talking to Brian Lara and he was also of the view that Sachin’s greatness can’t be questioned.

I have seen him closely for a long time, especially during my tenure as India coach, and I am sure there isn’t a cricketer who is more level-headed, sincere and focused than him. He is so sure of himself. He has got a huge reputation and he knows it very well. He wouldn’t hang around for a day in international cricket if he thinks things are not working for him.

His recent attacking play showed he is in an aggressive frame of mind and he definitely wants to make a point after whatever was said and written in the media. But despite that I will insist that the early Sachin flamboyance was something else.

... contd.