Former England captain Nasser Hussain once again acknowledged the greatness of Sachin Tendulkar, the master Indian batsman, who remains the game's highest Test and ODI run-maker more than six years after putting end to his legendary career in 2013.
Hussain specifically talked about Tendulkar's technique, which many think was the most perfect they've seen, and informed the number of discussions his England team had to try and get past the defence of the 'Master Blaster'.
The now renowned commentator spoke about Tendulkar in the latest episode of ICC podcast titled ‘Cricket Inside Out’, along with Ian Bishop and Elma Smit.
"Overall when I talk about all-time batsmen, Sachin Tendulkar had a magnificent technique. When I was England skipper, I cannot remember how many team meetings we used to have just to discuss how to get Tendulkar out," said Hussain.
“For me, the technique is getting runs in all parts of the world, and I like someone who plays with soft hands and lets the ball come to him," he added.
Hussain reckons New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is the one among the post-Tendulkar era batsmen who has the best technique.
He also made a larger point as to why batsmen today aren't able to adjust to difficult conditions playing Test match cricket.
"Kane Williamson for me has a very good technique in the current era, he plays the ball late with soft hands."
"As a result of T20 cricket, players in the modern game play with hard hands, Williamson can play all three formats and can adapt his game to each."
Stressing Hussain's point on Tendulkar's technique, Bishop said the right-hand batsman played in the most perfectly straight lines.
"Sachin Tendulkar is one of the most difficult batsmen to whom I have bowled in my career. He always used to hit in the straight lines," he said.
