Sachin must earn his place on form

Despite a century each from Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman in the series, India’s top order looks rusty and out of form. The enigma called Virender Sehwag has not fired either. Indeed, in this hour of victory, India would do well to keep a constant vigil on their Test squad. This mix can do with a bit of dash of youth. Frankly, Indians need two young batsmen who can challenge the established lot. Yuvraj Singh has made the transition successfully, or so it seems, and Mohammad Kaif must also now do the same.

The likes of Laxman and Sourav Ganguly must look to command their place by virtue of performance and not past glory. Call it blasphemy or anything you like, it also goes for Sachin Tendulkar. They must not give the impression they are trying to build scores for themselves and not for the team. If they continue to do so without being checked, it would appear that the Indians are adopting different yardsticks in their approach to one-day and Test cricket. It would be the right message we would like to hear. The same rules must apply to everyone. (PTI)