Sachin Tendulkar (right) has often spoken out against Greg Chappell’s reign as India coach © Getty Images
In the Times Lit Fest, it was revealed that in a chance meeting with Ian Chappell — brother of India’s former coach Greg — Sachin Tendulkar criticised Greg and went on to tell Ian that his brother’s stint as India coach had costed India five years of progress. Tendulkar met Ian at a gym in Durban where Tendulkar was working out. Ian made a candid remark that Sachin’s secret to playing top cricket was hidden in his commitment to fitness. But Tendulkar was in no mood for small talk, he seemed bitter about the state Greg had left Indian cricket in. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar’s life depicted through ‘Unknown Tapes’ session at Times Lit Fest
Just prior to the meeting, Ian had written in one of his columns that Tendulkar needed to introspect and decide whether he was still good enough for international cricket. Bearing that in mind Tendulkar also accused Ian of conveniently changing his tone. Tendulkar then went on vent his frustration about Greg to his brother, reported Times of India. ALSO READ: The final Sachin Test innings
“So this is the secret,” Ian said on seeing Sachin exercise. “You guys conveniently change your tone,” Tendulkar quickly retorted. “Your brother (Greg, ex-India coach) created all the problem. He took Indian cricket at least five years behind,” Tendulkar added.
Sachin is the most prolific run scorer in the history of the game in Tests and One-Day Internationals (ODIs). Across those two formats, Tendulkar boasts hundred international centuries which is also a record. He made his debut as a 16-year-old in 1989 and played for 24 years until 2013. He is worshiped by many of his Indian fans.