'Focused' Sachin not game for sideshows

Sachin Tendulkar is not new to antics of fanatic fans. But the euphoria surrounding his 199th Test match at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens has even taken the Little Master by surprise.

Sachin appeared uncomfortable, a tad irritated, after he was mobbed by thousands, who had gathered to welcome him at the Kolkata airport on Sunday night.

The ace cricketer declined to participate in a pre-scheduled photo exhibition, and doubts remain if he would attend a function on Tuesday night to unveil the special gold coin, which will be used for the toss in Wednesday’s match between India and West Indies.

“Tendulkar explained he would like to stay focused on the game. He has communicated his inability to be present at some of the events due to practice sessions and other engagements. We are fine with whatever he thinks is better for him," said Subir Ganguli, joint secretary of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB).

But this has certainly not deterred Tendulkar’s fans, including West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

While Banerjee may be busy with the preparation of the Kolkata Film Festival – the week-long programme is scheduled to start from November 10 — she plans to surprise Tendulkar at the end of the Test match.

“She will be present at the Eden Gardens on the final day. The CM plans to gift Tendulkar something special but it is a secret as of now," a minister with the state government said, requesting anonymity.

Even if the West Indies win, 'victory lap' will take place for Sachin, the minister added.

On Tuesday, hundreds of supporters gathered in front of Eden Gardens ahead of the Indian cricket team's practice session, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star batsman. But, the local police dispersed them.

The preparations to celebrate Tendulkar's penultimate international Test match is on full swing – one of the leading sweet makers in Kolkata plans to give him a five-pound sandesh, while CAB will present him a silver banyan tree.