Sport - Cricket

Tendulkar is greatest: Cairns

Dubai: Sitting on piles of runs in both forms of cricket and with virtually every batting record in his pocket, Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest batsman of the modern era, according to former New Zealand all-rounder Chris Cairns.

Enjoying every bit of his stint with the Lashings World XI after an illustrious career with the New Zealand team, Cairns was asked to name the best batsman of his era and the Kiwi picked Tendulkar.

Among the bowlers, Pakistani great Wasim Akram was Cairns’ choice.

Blessed with six-hitting abilities and lively pace, Cairns was hailed as one of the few genuine all-rounders of his era. The affable Kiwi, however, rates Ian Botham, Imran Khan and Kapil Dev as the three best all-rounders of the modern era.

“In my view Ian Botham tops the list. He has won more matches and could easily turn a match with his effort,” Cairns was quoted as saying by Gulf News.

“Imran Khan is next as the Pakistani all-rounder could bat at No. 4 and also used to open the bowling.

“Third in my list is Kapil Dev, simply because the man took so many wickets and mostly on the sub-continent pitches which are not too helpful to pace,” Cairns explained.

He revealed he was planning a new career post retirement but ruled out full-time coaching. “After quitting I am currently enjoying myself with my family and with Lashings.

“For over 12 years it has been a hectic schedule and I have yet to decide on my future,” said Cairns — PTI

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