Tendulkar stresses on shot selection for success

Tendulkar, for whom this is the fourth tour Down Under, cited an example from his own vast experience. “When I toured here first in 1991-92 series, I didn’t make any adjustment initially. I chose the same weight of bat, the same swing but as the tour went on, I realised I should not attempt a few strokes at least in the initial part of my innings.”

There is a lot of speculation about Wasim Jaffer’s opening partner for the first Test starting December 26, but although Tendulkar did not divulge any inside information, he claimed it was not a matter of great concern. “I don’t think we have figured it out (openers for the first Test). But as long as the replacement is solid, it shouldn’t matter. Anyway, I am not the one to comment on it.”

Virender Sehwag, who has been struggling in domestic cricket recently, has been selected on the basis of his strong performances in the 2003-04 tour of Australia and Tendulkar backed him to provide a repeat performance.

“He’s (Sehwag) been chosen because he has batted in a certain manner and that’s the method he should choose to stick with,” Tendulkar said. India’s chances of their first Test series win on Australian soil depend on their bowlers taking 20 wickets in a match and the Mumbaikar said they could hold their own against, what he admitted, was a formidable batting line up of the home team.

“They have a formidable batting line-up. But we have some good performers in our side. Zaheer Khan when he toured here in 2003-2004 series, took five wickets in Brisbane. We have Anil Kumble who has taken wickets all around the world,” he added.

High profile as the series is, Tendulkar said it was not necessarily bigger than any other tour. “It would be an important tour if we can pull it off. Beating Australia is the ultimate. It’s an important tour for me but then whenever I represent India, playing against any opponent, be it Bangladesh, Australia or anybody else, becomes important.”

Even though he is in the twilight of an illustrious career, Tendulkar claimed the thought of retirement had not crossed his mind yet. “I haven’t thought about it (retirement). I am thoroughly enjoying my cricket.”