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Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has revealed his love for the beautiful game along with a host of other aspects in a candid interview to FIFA.com. The ‘Little Master’ also shed light on the Indian Super League and how the cricket culture in India compares to the footballing culture in England.
Tendulkar, considered by many as the greatest batsman to grace the ‘Gentlemen’s game’ has been associated with football in India ever since his retirement from the game in 2013. He controls a majority stake of the Kerala-based franchise of the Indian Super League, the Kerala Blasters FC and has been actively involved in the affairs of the franchise.
The iconic cricketer when asked on when he first developed an admiration for football said, “ Right from my childhood. I've played football as a kid and have enjoyed doing so even when playing for India, as warm-up sessions tend to be volleyball or football.”
“ It's a lot of fun and one of those sports in the world that you can't stay away from. It was more for my personal enjoyment, rather than following a particular team – when it was shown on television I would always appreciate it though,” he added.
Tendulkar also recalled his fond memories of visiting the iconic Old Trafford to witness Manchester United in action alongside United and England legend Sir Bobby Charlton.
“ I attended a Manchester United match and obviously Sir Bobby Charlton was there, so we watched the game together. It was a fantastic experience. I really enjoyed the atmosphere there.”
“ The fan engagement and how they respond to every little thing that they do is incredible. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and it was a memorable one. Just to be Manchester United's guest was special.”
The genius from Mumbai compared the cricketing illustrated the similarities between the cricket culture and the football culture in India and England respectively.
“ It reminds me of the people back home. Extremely passionate and every little thing that we do matters; every little thing is monitored; every little thing has hundreds of people passing judgement. Everything is under a microscope.”
I have no doubt change regarding football will happen in India: Tendulkar
Tendulkar, easily one of the most recognisable personalities in India, also elucidated the growing popularity of football in India and how the general public have taken to the ISL.
“ Football is getting popular – it's nowhere near cricket, but I don't like comparisons. It's about appreciating each and every sport – the skills, the hard work and the sacrifices the players make. Each individual should be respected for that and Indian people are appreciating ISL in a big way.”
“ I'm thrilled that their response has been special and people are following not only the foreign players but the domestic players too. They are becoming heroes, role models and overall that is how football in India is going to grow. With India’s billion-plus population, if it grows it's definitely going to have a positive impact on football all over the world.”
The ‘Master Blaster’ also provided his thoughts on the need for sound infrastructure for nurturing up and coming talent and how we could further the outreach of the game in the country.
“ I think the infrastructure of how football is run in India is going to become critical. How the season is played also becomes very important – you want to try to make your domestic season as competitive as possible and then find the best talent who are part of the ISL.”
“With the exposure of having rubbed shoulders with some of the top footballers from all parts of the world, the Indian team will eventually benefit as well. I have no doubts that the change is going to happen and happen for the better,” he summed up.
Additionally, the ace cricketer also expressed his delight at India being nominated to host the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017 and also its importance in helping India make its mark on world football.
“ [The tournament is] absolutely massive. Everyone is looking forward to it, everyone is excited and the guys are waiting to welcome the World Cup to India. It's going to be massive, it's good for India because people are appreciating ISL and FIFA coming to India is a big, big thing.”
