Sachin's retirement - There's more 'the master' can offer

I don’t think it is important to argue whether Sachin should retire now or not, the point should be how should we go about building a batting lineup that is formidable enough to stand the challenge of facing some of the world’s best bowling attack in tough conditions of England and Australia. There are talented youngsters in the team who will benefit from Sachin’s presence. The Virat Kohli‘s, Pujara’s, Rahane’s, Sharma’s etc. will benefit. But if they do not get enough match practice, then the effort will be futile as they will get knocked out in conditions that aid swing, pace, bounce and carry.

India has a few important series coming up. The series against New Zealand at home is first up. I don’t think India needs Sachin’s magic to win this series. Sachin playing in this series will only add a few more runs to his tally but it will rob a youngster of a vital chance. Maybe Sachin should play against England in the home series because his experience and the stability he brings to the middle order will be useful against one of the best bowling lineups.

India can utilize Sachin sparingly like they have been doing in ODIs to help the youngsters get his valuable advice along with getting good opportunities of playing in the side. You don’t want a situation where a youngster was constantly a 12th member in the side and all of a sudden he is asked to play in tough conditions in England, South Africa, or Australia.

Let’s just leave this debate to the best cricket minds in the country. The people who occupy the selection and cricket administration spots are there because they know a thing or two about cricket more than we do.

Cheers, hoping for a new ruthless cricket playing team in the coming years.