BCCI rubbishes report about Tendulkar being asked to retire

Mumbai, October 4: Rubbishing reports that Sachin Tendulkar has been asked by the BCCI to retire after his 200th Test, the Board's Secretary Sanjay Patel on Thursday said it was the senior batsman's prerogative to decide on his future.

"That is absolutely absurd and rubbish. Let me tell you, it will be the prerogative of Mr Sachin Tendulkar. Board has not talked or asked him to resign (retire) and the Board is never going to do it because he is such a great player," BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel told reporters in Mumbai.

Patel was reacting to media reports that quite a few Board members were of the opinion that the record-setting batsman was past his prime and chould be told to call it a day after he completes his landmark 200th Test appearance, against the visiting West Indies next month.

The Windies are to play two Tests and three ODIs during their visit and the 40-year-old Tendulkar has played 198 Tests.

"We appreciate the concern (from media) about this. But I ask my good media friends, please refrain (from speculating) and from going (ahead reporting) with such wrong details," Patel said.

The BCCI Secretary put the onus entirely on Tendulkar and the five-man selection panel about his cricketing future.

"It is entirely upto Sachin Tendulkar and selectors. The selectors should (choose to) pick him and Sachin Tendulkar should be ready to play.

"Board is very happy with whatever (decision) Sachin Tendulkar is taking of his own free will," Patel elaborated.