The Hindu : Sport : ‘Tendulkar’s longevity, a tribute to his fitness’

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‘Tendulkar’s longevity, a tribute to his fitness’

Sports Reporter

— Photo: Mohd. Yousuf

Sir Richard Hadlee.

Chennai: Sir Richard Hadlee believes sports and medicine — particularly in the context of injuries in modern sport — are interminably linked. The pace bowling great was in the city as part of his involvement in launching Apollo Hospitals’ Knee Clinic, which promises a “360 degree approach to knee pain,” according to CEO Dr. Hariprasad.

Speaking to The Hindu, the former New Zealand quick predicted that injuries would be a regular feature in sport, specially cricket, and stressed the need for more such specialised clinics.

“I found the link here since I had a knee problem myself, and I also see the link between sports and medicine. The growing number of clinics such as these will give sportspeople and others peace of mind, knowing that there is a place to take care of them.

“The problem, today, with sportsmen — particularly cricketers — is that they continue playing with niggling injuries, which could have severe long-term implications.

“The schedule is a major concern in cricket. Players want to play all formats of the game because of the financial rewards involved, but that will result in wear and tear of the body and the mind. Players need rest to clear up injuries. My attitude would be to think long-term and not short-term.

“A professional decision has to be made. Young players are worried someone else will take their place if they miss a game. If you’re a good enough player and decide to rest to recover from an injury, the selectors will understand,” said Hadlee.

‘Pace yourselves’

The pace bowling great was of the opinion that fast bowlers needed to learn to manage themselves better. “I played cricket for 19 years, and had only two major injuries — shoulder and Achilles tendon — and the odd muscle pull. People argue that I didn’t play as much, but I played 10 years of county cricket, which is more than 100 days a year. I learnt how to manage myself and preserve myself for a long career. The body can only do so much,” he said.

Sachin Tendulkar’s 20-year milestone, he said, was remarkable.

“It is a tribute to Tendulkar’s fitness, skills and motivation that he’s been able to perform so remarkably for 20 years. He’s arguably the greatest player ever and a role model both on and off the field.

“He is also a wonderful human being, and will look back at his career with humility and understand how privileged he was to have been born into cricket. What more can anyone say? He’s broken all records,” said Hadlee.

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