|
Harbhajan's return is a plus point: Sachin
Gurgaon, June 21: Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar yesterday welcomed the inclusion of off-spinner Harbhajan Singh in the Asia Cup
probables' list, saying the return of the bowler to competitive cricket is a plus-point for the team.
"Harbhajan has done exceedingly well for the country in the recent past. He is a lively cricketer and his return is a plus point for the team," Tendulkar told reporters here. National selectors named
Harbhajan, returning after a six-month injury lay-off, among 20 probables for the Asia Cup tournament beginning in Sri Lanka next month.
Tendulkar, who was here to inaugurate a go-karting championship, also sought to put an end to the controversy over who should open the innings in Test cricket -- Yuvraj Singh or Aakash Chopra. "Controversy has been generated over the issue and our job is to ensure that it dies down. If you ask 10 players over one issue, they all will have different opinions. It is the job of the selectors to decide who should open," he said.
When asked about his personal opinion on the matter, Tendulkar said "Yuvraj is extremely talented but Aakash has also done well in whatever chances he has got. He is not afraid of opening the innings and facing the new ball. But I would say it is a tough choice." Tendulkar, known for his passion for fast cars, spoke enthusiastically about his visit to top Formula-1 team McLaren-Mercedes' headquarters in Surrey last month.
"I am a cricketer but I also love motor racing. It's one of my favourite off-season activities. I really enjoyed the visit and it was a nice feeling to be there with McLaren people," he said, recalling his trip on the invitation of McLaren's top driver Kimi Raikkonen. Revealing his grasp on soccer, the batting genius backed France to defend their title in Euro 2004 in Portugal.
"I am not a great follower of the game. But I think France will win the championship," he said. (Agencies)
Published: Monday, June 21, 2004
|
