There is no one like Sachin: Ramakant Achrekar

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar’s coach Ramakant Achrekar Thursday reiterated that there is no one like Sachin and took pride that he has served the nation for a long time.

Speaking at the inauguration of Nyuzmakers Cricket Challenge, a tournament for jewellery retailers, a frail Achrekar simply said: “There is no one like Sachin.”

However, the 80-year-old Achrekar could only mumble softly and had to be helped by a close family friend Milind Gurav to communicate his feelings about Tendulkar’s retirement.

When asked about Sachin’s recent retirement, Achrekar said the timing he chose to retire is right.

“Sachin Tendulkar has served the nation for a long time. The timing he has chosen to retire from One-Day Internationals (ODI) is right. I am certain that he will continue to serve the nation through Test cricket and will carry forward the legacy by passing on his experience to youngsters,” he said.

A recipient of the Dronacharya Award for his contribution to Indian cricket, Achrekar had expressed shock over Tendulkar’s retirement news in December last year. Achrekar had said that he wanted Tendulkar to continue playing in ODIs.

“He should have continued playing in all formats. I wish to see him play as long as I live,” Achrekar had said.

Tendulkar Dec 23 closed a major chapter of his illustrious career by announcing his retirement from ODIs. His decision following days of speculation came moments before the selectors announced the Indian team for the limited overs series against Pakistan starting Dec 25.