Sachin skipper for ODI tourneys

The chairman of selectors, Ajit Wadekar said that Sachin’s choice was unanimous and no other name was discussed at the meeting. “It took us two minutes to decide. We are looking ahead and Sachin would be the best to lead the team because he can hang on as long as he wishes,” said Wadekar.

“He is the best player in the team. He is a thinker and is respected by his colleagues. Hence, the right choice,” he added.

When asked if the world’s premier batsman was informed before the decision was made, Wadekar said it wasn’t necessary. “I’m confident that Sachin would never say no,” headded.

Tendulkar will lead the team in one-day tournament in Sri Lanka from August 22 to 31. He will be in-charge till the end of the three-nation one-day tri-series in Singapore to be played from September 2 to 7.

The selectors and BCCI secretary JY Lele, who were inside the meeting hall for over 90 minutes, consumed most of their time discussing India’s World Cup performance. “We discussed the strategy for future,” Lele said.

Wadekar informed that the team and vice-captain would be selected at next meeting likely to be held either in Delhi or Baroda on August 6.

Wadekar hoped that Sachin’s batting performance would not be affected by the burden of captaincy. “In fact, Sachin has denied time and again that his batting was affected by the top job,” he said.

Wadekar did not want to describe Tendulkar’s appointment as the “sacking” of Azharuddin. “Azhar has not done anything wrong, he will be considered for selection if he is available and fit. He has not yet announced his retirement,” saidWadekar.

Asked whether Azharuddin was informed before he was replaced, the selection committee chairman said: “It is not the practice to tell the concerned player.”

Wadekar denied that the change in guard had taken place because of the public opinion, following India’s poor show in England. “We don’t go by popular demand,” he retorted.

The selectors discussed the report of coach Anshuman Gaekwad on the World Cup performance. Lele refused to reveal the contents, saying it was "not for public".

Wadekar’s assesment of Tendulkar

The best player in the team

Can hang on as long as he wishes. Hence, the best bet for future

Is a good thinker

Is respected by his colleagues

Is more mature now (after his previous stint as a skipper)

Is the right time for him to don the mantle

No other player can match his qualities — as a player and a captain.