Sachin Tendulkar comes up with new idea for juniors

Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday came up with a suggestion that could give Mumbai youngsters more opportunities to play.

After being felicitated by the Mumbai Cricket Association president Sharad Pawar at the association’s BKC clubhouse, Tendulkar said: “The club culture is fantastic in Mumbai, that’s why we have won 40 Ranji Trophy titles. The introduction of IPL in cricket saw the game go to small towns. With so much competition around, it is important to do something to stay ahead of others in the competition.”

“We should come up with something new that will help us become more competitive. To create an opportunity for young cricketers, I’d suggest that instead of fielding 11 players, we should have all the 15 players playing and rotate them at the school or college levels, in the Harris Shield and Giles Shield. Youngsters coming from far are not sure if they will play. Hence, they have to be left out for no fault of theirs. This suggestion will only create opportunities for players. Around 10,000 cricketers will benefit and selectors will get to see talent,” he said.

Tendulkar also clarified that this idea was not because his son Arjun is coming up. “Success or failure. I’d back Arjun because I want him to enjoy the game. But that is not the case with everyone.
There is not much backing for others whose parents would want them to do something else. It is all about giving opportunity to the youngsters.”