virendar sehwag on sachin

Virender Sehwag

I scored my first international century in Sri Lanka, against New Zealand, in a tri-series match. I was elated, even more so because my team-mates said then that I batted like Sachin Tendulkar.

I wondered what Sachin would have said had he been there. But he had not come to Sri Lanka because of injury. When I reached the hotel, a fax awaited me. It was from Sachin, a congratulatory message, saying that he had enjoyed my innings.

Those were the early days of my career, and that was one of the best of them. I had scored my first century and then got the ultimate praise from my idol. What else could I have asked for? I grew up idolising Sachin. I would watch him on television and try to copy his shots in the house. I believe I have learnt a lot by watching him bat on TV. him, I would always keep a close watch on what he did. Initially, I was not a good player. I improved a lot after taking tips from him.

Until then, I had never known that Sachin was so humble, but I was soon to realise just how down to earth he is. Whenever I have a problem, I go to him. If I became regular member of the Indian team, it was largely because of his help. When I was out of the team, he would keep advising me to never lose hope, and to focus. I've not come across a player who is so inspiring.

I remember I was struggling for runs in Australia. I went to him for advice. He simply said forget everything. “When you bat, think of your father, think of your mother and wife.” The advice worked wonders for me. I got a 40-odd score in that Test. The next Test I played I got 151. That Test was in Perth.

Even in Chennai, he was constantly advising me what to do. I may have got two triple centuries, but I honestly feel Sachin is capable of much bigger scores. Many have said I can break Brian Lara's world record of 400 one day. But I feel among Indian batsmen, Sachin is the one who can break the record.

I have often been told that I look and play like Sachin. I have felt honoured by such comparisons. Being a Sachin clone is an honour in itself.