Watching Tendulkar light up the Kinara Oval with a magnificent hundred I couldn't but help compare him to Andre Agassi who just retired. Tendulkar has not played a game for over 6 months and after being subjected to endless criticism, the perseverance shown by him can only be matched by Agassi. Both in their twilight of their careers have been plagued by numerous injuries but their mental strength more than made up for this.
At the beginning of their careers they both were completely different personalities. Andre Agassi was a maverick and a rebel but Tendulkar was mature beyond his years. Andre Agassi never had to bear the expectations of an entire nation when he played. Contrast this with Tendulkar whose every move is watched with bated breath. To Tendulkar's credit he has carried himself admirably in people's eyes.
Though its sad that lately Tendulkar has had to endure endless criticism and taunts on his usefulness to the team. I agree the same quality of perseverance can be viewed differently in a team sport. You have to play to the needs of a team and only as long as you contribute to the team. But then you could say Andre Agassi trying to prolong his stay on the tour has deprived another youngster of a possible Grand Slam place for a few years.
I hope that we can appreciate Tendulkar for what he is and give him a whole hearted farewell when he decides to hang up his boots. He should be made to feel every minute spent in this game was worth it. Lets enjoy whatever shots he makes for it might just be his last.
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