God of Cricket Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar turned 39 this week, but his talent and passion prove he could well have several good years left in him. Even though in an interview to Daily Mail, Sachin refused to answer if he will play the next World Cup in 2015, his ardent fans feel the age factor pales before Sachin’s talent, and he has what it takes to play well into his forties.
Delhi cricketer Bhaskar Sharma says, “Sachin is the inspiration for budding cricketers like me. The way he’s been performing lately, he doesn’t look old or tired. I don’t think he’s through yet and will get us the next World Cup as well.”
HR consultant Vidushi Johari refuses to even think about Sachin’s retirement. She says, “I’m his die-hard fan. Cricket is incomplete without him. Sachin is the backbone of our team and brings out the best in everyone. He is the team’s guiding light, and I don’t think cricket will be the same whenever he decides to retire. But I’m sure that day is a long way away.”
Former India opener Aakash Chopra feels the decision to retire should solely be Sachin’s call. “As a fan, I would like him to be on the field until he’s 60 for my selfish reason. I feel as long as he is fit, he should play,” he says.
Shereen Iqbal, student, feels the World Cup victory last year was especially precious because of Sachin’s presence in the team. “When we won the World Cup last year, every member of the team dedicated the win to Sachin. Do I need to say anything more?”
IT professional Abhishek Thakur sums up, “Who decides whether a cricketer should play, or hang up his boots? It’s solely the discretion of selectors. Greybeards who add spice to their cricket commentary and TV talkshows by speculating about Tendulkar’s retirement should let him be. Australian Brad Hogg made a comeback to the national side, and to IPL, at the age of 41 — after sitting in the commentary box for a year. So, age isn’t a factor, form and fitness is. Sachin willing, and health permitting, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t play till (and in) the 2015 World Cup. You field your best 15, and if Sachin can make that cut, there’s no way a number (his age) can keep him away from playing cricket.”