Tendulkar a role model for world cricket: Pakistani players

KARACHI: Former and present Pakistani players on Wednesday paid rich tribute to Sachin Tendulkar for becoming the first batsman in the history of the game to score a double hundred in one-dayers and said he is the perfect "role model" for any cricketer.

"For any cricketer he is the perfect role model. The great thing about him is that he has been outstanding in both Tests and ODIs. As a Pakistani player, I know how much value we have always put on his wicket," right-handed batsman Shoaib Malik said about the batting maestro.

Former skipper and wicketkeeper Rashid Latif said the feat was no surprise to him as it was only a matter of time for Tendulkar to achieve it.

"I always expected him to be the first one to score 200 in ODIs, but I was surprised that he took so long," Latif said.

Another former captain Aamir Sohail said, "The rule is simple when you give respect to the game, then only the game will give you respect."

Batting great Javed Miandad said he had always asked Pakistani cricketers to admire Tendulkar for his down to earth attitude, hard work and passion.

"Records are there to be broken but it makes you happy when someone like Tendulkar does it. I think he thoroughly deserves this record and many more in days to come," he said.

"Whatever he is achieving is because of his top physical and mental condition. He simply enjoys the game even today," Miandad said.

"Now-a-days big scores are common but it doesn't take away anything from Tendulkar because his achievement must be viewed in context of his whole career," he added.

Another ex-captain Rameez Raja said he would describe Tendulkar as the most consistent batsmen the world has ever seen.

"The way he is still scoring runs and breaking records is awesome and a lesson for the cricketing world. The unique thing is his passion for the game. He is still like a 10-year old and that is very important to keep on going at the top level," he said.

He said at the age of 36, Tendulkar's ability to retain his interest and hunger for runs was incredible.

"This latest record is not surprising at all. I loved watching him bat and I think he still has a lot more to give to India and cricket."

Former skipper and coach Intikhab Alam said he considered Tendulkar as one of modern day cricket's greatest players.

"The way he is going I feel sorry for the bowlers around the world. He will be a terror for bowlers in the 2011 World Cup."