Chennai, Sept 15: Mumbai captain Sachin Tendulkar today predicted a "tough battle" against Rest of India in the Irani Trophy starting here on Thursday and said it was important for players to earn vacant berths in the national squad for the home series against New Zealand. Tendulkar, who will be leading Mumbai for the first time after 1998, said with the Rest of India side playing with its full strength "the match will also be a good experience for the young talents in the Mumbai team".
The batting maestro, who arrived here this afternoon, last captained Mumbai in 1998 against Gujarat in a Ranji Trouphy league match.
Mumbai has never lost a first-class match under Tendulkar's captaincy. In the 15 matches he led the side, the team registered 13 outright victories and drew two.
Tendulkar, who evaded questions on the 'Ferrari car issue' welcomed the cricket board's decision of payment to players based on performance. "It is a very good step," he said.
For over three seasons, the top Indian stars have opted out of this prestigious tournament. Considering the array of stars' participating this year, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association has decided to have gates for the match.
Except for Ajit Agarkar, the other Mumbai players will arrive here later in the day. Ganguly will arrive here on Wednesday morning while his team members will reach here tomorrow morning.
Bureau Report