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Hope Sachin continues to shoulder responsibility: Dravid

Former India captain Rahul Dravid hoped that Sachin Tendulkar would continue to shoulder responsibility in his and VVS Laxman's absence during the upcoming India-New Zealand series beginning on August 23 in Hyderabad. 

"Sachin has been burdened with responsibility and has been carrying it on his shoulders for the last 16 years. 

"I hope he will continue to do it (in the India-New Zealand series)," he told reporters on the sidelines of a function in Bangalore.

'Laxman has been a great inspiration'

On Laxman's retirement, Dravid said the stylish Hyderabad batsman has been a great cricketer for India and it was a privilege and an honour to have played with him. 

Laxman meant so much for Indian cricket, not only with his performances on the field, but also just a kind of a person he has been off it, Dravid said. 

"Laxman has been known for his ideas. The way he has carried himself, the way he has prepared, his practice. 

"I think he has been a great inspiration for a lot of young kids who have been in the team with us. I am sure they have watched Laxman a lot and they have learnt a lot from Laxman. I hope some of these guys will go on to emulate Laxman," he said.

'Doesn't matter what I say'

Reacting to the exodus of northeast people from the city following rumours of attacks on them, Dravid said Bangalore is one of the best cities in the world and he need not say anything on the matter as the city police commissioner and people in-charge have said what they need to say. 

"They have said it is a safe city and what more you can ask for. Doesn't matter what I say. 

"At the end of the day, you have some very good authorities in the city who have always helped maintain Bangalore's name as one of the safest and best places to live in.I know they will continue to do that in the future.They are on top of it," he said.