Give support staff longer tenure, say greats

Living cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara and Steve Waugh made a call for coaches, physios and trainers to be given longer tenures to ensure better results.

The three greats, who are in Chennai to launch the MRF National Go Karting championship on Sunday, felt the three-man support staff are a vital part of a team.

Responding to a question, Tendulkar said: 'The coach, physio and trainer are part and parcel of the team. Cricket is a team game and the team's success reflects on the performance of players as well as these three. Therefore, they have got to be given a longer tenure for better on-field results."

West Indies captain Lara felt the three are an integral part of a team and need a three or four-year contract to produce results, while Australia Test skipper Steve Waugh favoured a minimum tenure of two or three years.

"Before these people are appointed, the respective cricket boards should look into their credentials and if they are good enough for the job, they need to be given a minimum of two or three years to work with the team," Waugh said.

To a question on the use of heavier bats, Tendulkar, who uses such a willow, said: "It should be left to the individual. It might take a fraction of a second more to go for a shot but if the batsman is comfortable and more relaxed with a heavier bat, there is no harm in using one."

He was reacting to former Australia captain Greg Chappell's remark that use of heavier bats would be detrimental to the player.

Tendulkar, who seemed to be in a humourous mood, said he was misquoted by a leading daily, which said he is doubtful for the home series against New Zealand.

"I reiterate that I am completely fit after medical treatment. Not only myself, but all the players are raring to go," he said.

Talking about the resurgence of West Indies cricket, Lara said he could see the team moving towards the standards of 70s and 80s.

"Apart from the series win against the Sri Lankans, we had a good tour of Australia.

"We learnt a lot from the Aussies. Our team is a little inexperienced but the players are talented and willing to learn faster," he said.

He felt his side has a "realistic opportunity" to perform well on their tour of Zimbabwe and South Africa.

"I am sure my boys will put all their gains against the Aussies and the Sri Lankans to good effect in winning matches."

Asked whether the use of a bat autographed by Tendulkar during the World Cup brought him luck and also helped in regaining his form, Lara replied: "I had told Sachin that I am joining MRF. He had only an extra sticker and that is how I used the bat with his autograph."

On his decision to make a film, Waugh said: "Concentrating on cricket is my top priority. I have decided to make a film involving the children of Udayan in Kolkata. I have plans to get into business after I quit cricket."