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Everyone chipped in… like at Johannesburg and Durban: Sachin Tendulkar

Lord's win reminded Sachin Tendulkar of Indian wins in Johannesburg (2006) and Durban (2010).

Sachin Tendulkar wants the Indian team to enjoy the winning moment at Lord’s (Source: IE Photo)

I remember telling my son Arjun that India had the upper-hand in the game after the first day’s play at Lord’s. Our boys put in a very creditable performance in the first Test and then followed it up by batting brilliantly on Day One on a testing pitch. I also felt that the key from the second day onwards was for them to capitalize on that start, to build on the foundation laid down by the batsmen and to keep the pressure on them. And they did just that.

Going into the final day, it was always going to be just a matter of time before the pressure got to them despite the two English batsmen having almost seen off the first session. There is nothing comparable to the pressure that you feel while batting on Day 5.

And I’m really happy that things turned out perfectly for India. It is a remarkable win, and a precious day for the entire country. I’m really proud of the boys and the way in which they never let the game slip out of their hands. This was our first win at Lord’s in 28 years, which makes it even more special.

Winning Tests in England is very special. What really stood out for me from this match was the number of performers we had across all five days. It reminded me of our wins in Johannesburg (2006) and Durban (2010). In both those games, everyone chipped in with special performances.

I didn’t see the entire day’s play but made sure to catch the crunch moments. And I did watch Ishant Sharma’s spell. I’m so happy for him. I have seen him develop from close quarters over the years. He is a very hard-working guy and a great talent. We all have always had great faith in him and today he was just exceptional.

I met the Indian team briefly in England, and I had conveyed to them that victory could be ours if we repeated our performance from the first Test and brought the same intensity. For now, I want them to enjoy the moment. These are wonderful times. Let’s not think too far ahead.

Tendulkar spoke to Devendra Pandey

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