Lessons learnt on field help even off it, says Tendulkar batting for sports in school curriculum

Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday called for inclusion of sports in school syllabuses across the country, saying that lessons learned on the field come in handy even off it.

A UNICEF brand ambassador, Tendulkar was in the capital to celebrate the World Children's Day.

"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," Tendulkar said during a panel discussion here.

"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."
"You have to be fearless but not careless. You have teachers to give direction to your life. Good individuals in 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."
Emphasising on the importance of hygiene, Tendulkar said: "Hygiene and sanitation in each school should be the focus. There are reports that girls can't go to school because they can't use the washroom. We need to change that."
"Being polite is not a weakness, it is a strength. Respect your elders."