'He is a gem in our sport'

I'm really happy for Sachin on breaking Brian Lara's record, to become the highest run getter in Test Match Cricket.

My earliest insight into Sachin's precocious talent was on India's 1992 tour to Australia. The Indian team struggled in that Test series, but it was clear to the world that Sachin had arrived, and was a force to be reckoned with in the future.

In the early 90's, the WACA was a fast bouncy surface, a lot quicker that it is today, and a batsman's technique was put to a real test. Every other Indian batsman struggled in that Test match; with Sachin's century the only major contribution. I was amazed at his impeccable adjustments in technique, and his stunning proficiency off the back foot. The young man's confidence was remarkable as he tackled the trying batting conditions.

That century in the fifth test at Perth made it clear to me that Sachin would go on to achieve greater laurels in the sport. Sachin has dominated a number of world class performers in his outstanding Test career. He has outsmarted Shane Warne on numerous occasions, and has performed exceptionally against fast bowlers of the calibre of Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh and Waqar Younis. Sachin can play shots all round the wicket like most great batsman, but is particularly among the best at playing straight.

You really need to travel to India to understand the pressure and expectations that are placed on Sachin when he goes out to bat for India. It amazes me how he copes with the extreme adulation of a billion people, with such class, character and finesse.

Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest batsman since Don Bradman.