Sachin Tendulkar is not taking part in the 2010 Commonwealth Games, but ask any athlete, Indian or foreign, present, about him and it is only admiration that they have for the ace batsman.
Tendulkar was unbeaten after a cracking innings of 191 as India put up 435 for five in a strong reply to Australia's first innings of 478, on Day 3 of the second and final Test in Bangalore, on Monday.
Australian hockey great Jamie Dwyer admitted he is a big fan of Tendulkar.
"I am a big fan of Sachin Tendulkar. I just love his batting. The way he bats is exceptional," Dwyer told rediff.com.
"He is a role model not only for India but for the entire sporting world."
Dwyer revealed how he had a brief interaction with Tendulkar during the 2005 Hockey Champions Trophy in Chennai.
"We spoke about hockey and cricket, but nothing much transpired between us. It was a quick chat, but the way he presented himself, I was really impressed," the Australian said.
Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza also lavished rich praise on the batting legend.
"We all know Sachin is my favourite and I am sure he is favourite among the majority. Congratulations to him; he has held the fort once again and saved the match once again for us," Sania said.
Ace marksman Vijay Kumar, who won three gold medals and a silver at the Delhi Games, said Tendulkar is his idol.
"He is such a great sportsperson. I look up to him. He is my favourite sportsperson," Vijay said.
