The Master Blaster, Sachin Tendulkar is just one behind the historic landmark, the 100th international ton. The whole cricket community is expecting that to happen in the upcoming 4-match test series against Australia starting tomorrow.
The Australian skipper Michael Clarke, though enjoys watching Sachin Tendulkar bat, he does not want him to achieve the record in Australia.
That’s (Tendulkar scoring his 100th international ton) certainly a prospect. I hope that doesn’t happen. I hope he scores it in his next series,” said Clarke ahead of their first Test.
“He’s been an unbelievable player for such a long period of time. I really enjoy watching him bat. If he does score his 100th century, he deserves every bit of credit and applause. I think it’s going to be a great crowd at this Test match, watching him and supporting him. I wish him well but in a perfect world, I’d like Sachin to score his 100th century in the next series India play,” he added.
Clarke has showed that he is all ready for the Indians by announcing his playing XI for the first Test, 48 hours in advance.
Opener Ed Cowan has been named in the final XI and is all to make his Test debut, while Ben Hilfenhaus’ experience was preferred over Mitchell Starc’s raw promise. The out-of-form duo of Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey have also been retained in the side.
The captain, meanwhile, warned his team-mates that aggression on the field should be within a limit and not result in ugly behaviour or controversy.
“I don’t think we need to (meet MS beforehand in order to ensure relations don’t break down during the series). I think both teams understand where we’re at. The relationship between the Aussie and Indian team couldn’t be stronger.”
“We all understand there’s a fine line you can go to but can’t cross. I guarantee nobody in the Australian team will cross that. If they do, there’ll be punishments from the ICC and also from Cricket Australia,” clarified Clarke.
The 30-year-old skipper expressed confidence if Australia could play consistently for five days, they would win the first Test.
“I think we are as well prepared as we can be. Now it’s about getting out there and playing some good cricket. I think if we can be consistent and execute our skills for the whole five days, we’ll win this Test match,” he said.
