Glad to see 'real' Sachin Tendulkar, says Kapil Dev

Trust Kapil Dev to be a cut above the rest. What impressed the World Cup-winning captain about Sachin Tendulkar was not just the feat but the ‘making’ of it.

“I loved the method, the mindset and the approach more than the achievement. Finally, he is batting like Sachin Tendulkar should. This is the only way he should play,” Kapil told DNA. “Only he can bat like this. If he does that, he’s flawless and nobody can ever get him out.”

Kapil feels Tendulkar is peerless and a “change in approach” a few years back allowed the Laras and Pontings to inch closer.

“God knows what prompted Sachin to change his style. And because he did that, he allowed a few others to get close to him (in terms of numbers and records). Suddenly, we started comparing Lara and Ponting to Tendulkar. All I have to say is that there is no one like Tendulkar. He is the greatest.”

So, does he rate the Mumbaikar’s unbeaten 200 above the his own imperious 175? “I don’t want to get into that comparison business.” Is this the best ODI innings of all time? “How can I say that when I haven’t seen all ODI innings?” was another gem.
When asked what’s left for Tendulkar to achieve, Kapil said, “He is enjoying his cricket and we are enjoying his cricket. He doesn’t have to prove anything.” How about the World Cup? “You should ask him. I’m sure he wants to win it badly.” So, does he have a message for Tendulkar? Yes, please play like Sachin Tendulkar. Not like anyone else”