Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar has unequivocally expressed his support for the franchise that he believes starts favourites heading into the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League.
“Of course, the Men in Blue, are there any doubts? I’ve always been in blue everywhere. When Mumbai and Indians come together then it becomes Mumbai Indians,” the master blaster revealed in a candid conversation with Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel, when asked about his favourite team at the eve of IPL 2020.
When Chopra underscored the strength of Delhi Capitals, Tendulkar highlighted the balance inherent in the squads of all teams.
“All teams are quite balanced. This format is such that by the time you play, a lot has already transpired on the field. We can look at this in two ways. Batsmen who seem to be in a hurry are cautioned to take it easy, while those who are extremely relaxed at times are required to take swift actions. It is going to be an exciting competition, and matches will be evenly contested. Considering the 53-day duration of the tournament, the team with momentum on its side might prevail.”
When asked about the importance of starting the tournament on a winning note, Tendulkar drew an intriguing analogy with the longest form of the game. “Even while playing a test series, we stress on performing well in the first game. If we play well in the first game, the series will finish well. Same applies here as well. If the beginning is good, the team meetings are also short, and that holds the team in good stead.”
In the process, the highest run-scorer in international cricket also shared some valuable insights for players before embarking on a long and exhaustive tournament.
“A less complicated mind is always ready to absorb what is happening at the opposite end. So it is very important that while batting, you must remain focussed on your actions on that day, rather than what has happened in the last game. That is why getting off to a rollicking start is essential; in order to remain focussed and determined. » Tendulkar opined.
In the free-wheeling conversation, Tendulkar recollected the mindset he had adopted while playing Abdul Qadir, his exploits against Australia and many other fond memories that the legend constructed in his illustrious career.
Tendulkar has been involved with the Mumbai Indians in various capacities. He played 78 games for the team, leading them in the first five seasons. After hanging his boots in late 2013, he joined Mumbai Indians as the mentor and oversaw the team lifting as many as four titles. He hasn’t yet joined the team in UAE, where the Rohit Sharma-led team has kick-started its IPL season, playing their first match against Chennai Super Kings on September 19 (Saturday).
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SOURCE: https://www.w24news.com
