“I look at how sportsmen are off the field too… Sachin has remained so humble… I know India fairly well now and know that it can get difficult for us cricketers, fans want to get so close to you… It must be 20 times more difficult for Sachin… Hats off to Sachin for having remained such a gentleman, no matter what the pressure… What he’s done for India is amazing and fans live and die for him. When someone special comes in to bat, you feel his presence… One gets that feeling when Sachin takes guard… You sense that extra energy. You can’t measure it, but it’s there. Being in the opposition, one tries to get him out, but there’s so much respect for him, respect which has been well-earned. I guess you can count on one hand the number of people who’ve tried to sledge Sachin. That’s the respect he enjoys… He’s an athlete who wants to win.” ~ Brett Lee on being asked about Sachin, in a very recent interview.

A R Rahman with Matt Dunkley.

Ganguly at Eden Gardens.