The celebrated keeper said he had the utmost respect for Tendulkar. "To have spoken directly with Sachin about there matters was a great relief for me. I have always admired his amazing cricketing ability and have spoken regularly about how I believe he has set the finest example of how to handle fame and the extraordinary public profile that comes with being an Indian cricketing superstar."

Gilchrist hoped that his clarification on the matter would put an end to the furore. "I have always enjoyed touring here, and most importantly have many strong friendships in India. For those reasons and for my personal friendship with Sachin, I was most concerned that a few off-the-mark headlines and interpretations of my book could possibly sour these friendships. Thankfully that hasn't occurred and I look forward to visiting these shores both as a cricketer and personally for many years to come," he said.