Process to defend World Cup should start early: Tendulkar

Mumbai, Dec 23 (IANS): Sachin Tendulkar Sunday said it was the right time to quit one-day cricket and give opportunity to the youngsters ahead of the 2015 World Cup.

Tendulkar said goodbye to 50-over cricket after amassing 18,426 runs in 463 games at an average of 44.83.

“I feel blessed to have fulfilled the dream of being part of a World Cup wining Indian team. The preparatory process to defend the World Cup in 2015 should begin early and in right earnest,” said Tendulkar.

“I would like to wish the team all the very best for the future. I am eternally grateful to all my well wishers for their unconditional support and love over the years.”

Tendulkar last played a one-day series, the Asia Cup, in Bangladesh where he completed his 100th hundred in international cricket.