Stating that the lessons learnt on field help even off it, Sachin Tendulkar has called for the schools in India to include sports in their annual studies' syllabus for the overall development of students in the country.

Present in Delhi for an event that celebrated World Children's Day, the legendary batsman and UNICEF brand ambassador, reaffirmed what he feels are the three things that every Indian school should possess.

He said, "Equal opportunity to both boys and girls, encouraging kids to take up sports and give importance to Hygiene and sanitation," before continuing, "It (sports) doesn't recognise the colour of skin, know your bank balance, or differentiate between a boy or girl. It doesn't discriminate. That is best for children. It helps in the overall development."

The great man also shared an insight on how playing sports early in life, shaped him up as a better human being and helped him get physically and mentally stronger, and achieve astonishing success at the highest level.

"I realised early that when we had anything do to with sports, I felt excited. It was a stress buster from school. I loved playing TT, hockey, football. The number of lessons that I learnt on the field, I have implemented them off it," he said, "It is all about ownership. For a batter who goes out to bat, he or she looks to own that 22 yard and similarly school kids should look to take decision and responsibility and take ownership of the school. You have to be fearless but not careless."

"You have teachers to give direction to your life. Good individuals in the dressing room make a good team. When sports and education go together, it creates harmony. I would like to see sports included in all schools and make it mandatory," he signed off.

(Inputs from PTI)