Sachin Tendulkar hit back at his critics who questioned his inability to strike form in one-day cricket of late, saying he does not bother about the comments of those without any credibility.
Tendulkar scored an unbeaten 117 to guide India to a six-wicket win against Australia in the first of the best of three tri-series finals.
"A lot of those people who can't do certain things themselves, they talk, so let them talk," Tendulkar said.
"I look at the credibility of the person who is writing. I prefer to listen to those people who matter to me. They do pick up the phone and tell me," he said.
Tendulkar said he is thrilled to get the century and more so because it was a match-winning effort.
"Yes, to score a century in Australia was something I wanted to do. It was also a terrific occasion to do so," said Tendulkar, whose unbeaten 42nd century sank the hosts.
He also talked about the niggles which hampered his progress during his innings as well as the beamer from Brett Lee which hit him smack on his shoulder.
"There has been a niggle in the groin which hasn't been allowing me to move freely. Still you try to push yourself. It was little difficult as I was cramping also.
"As for the beamer, I know Brett pretty well. It wasn't intentional. I jokingly told him that when he comes to play the IPL [Indian Premier League], he would have to face one from my son who is a great fan of his. There surely are no hard feelings."
Important as Tendulkar's innings was, his 123-run fourth wicket stand with Rohit Sharma was equally critical.
"I've played a few games with him [Rohit] but this was the first time we had a long stand. He is extremely calm and composed and that's his strength. He showed terrific character and has a wide range of shots. What's more his shot selection was also very good. I definitely think he has a great future."
On the youngsters in the side, Tendulkar said: "they are extremely talented. Being a senior you want to share your knowledge. They also come and tell me a lot of things."
Asked if he felt lonely in the dressing room being such a senior pro, Tendulkar replied: "as for being lonely, once you are selected to play for India, you have got to do certain things. I have always tried to be open and friendly and they are also allowed to crack jokes."
Tendulkar said he does not want to publicly specify the important aspects of skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's leadership.
"Dhoni has done a terrific job, without any doubt, and we all have enjoyed," he said.
The little master did not think it is uncomfortable at all to open the innings with different partners.
"I am prepared to open with anyone, you can't stick with the same idea all the time. There are different ideas and to implement them you do certain things," Tendulkar added.
