'There are wonderful players currently but look at what Sachin has achieved'- Joe Root on his idol ahead of ILT20 curtain raiser

Joe Root Sachin Tendulkar (Image source: Twitter)

One of the most technically gifted cricketers Joe Root keeps India’s all-time great Sachin Tendulkar in very high regard. Root praised Tendulkar during an event for the inaugural ILT20 wherein he will play for the Dubai Capitals team.

Root has been impressed by Tendulkar’s ability and manner of handling the pressure of Indian expectations during his playing time.

"I mean obviously there are some wonderful players currently playing but look at what Sachin has achieved, it's just remarkable really, the longevity, the ability to be such a high-performing player at such a young age, and then to be able to sustain and to keep developing and moving forward in the game," Root told, speaking exclusively to the Zee Network, the official broadcasters of ILT20.

"There have been times when he's carried the weight of the pressure on his shoulders, and he did it for over 20 years. He made his debut before I was born and played in my debut, and it just shows how and what he was for Indian Cricket for such a long period," he said.

"Truly great at the game, someone that you know, along with many others. I was a kid and I was admiring the way he played, and how easy it looked, and not only has he contributed to Indian cricket but also world cricket. So yeah, definitely a standout for me as a kid growing up," he added.

Not taking Root lightly- Sunil Narine

Root himself is a highly revered player now. He has gotten back to form yet again after giving up Test captaincy and struggling with runs a year ago. Now back to his best, Root has been signed by the Dubai Capitals team and will make his debut against Sunil Narine-led Abu Dhabi Knight Riders team on Friday. Narine who has played all around the world has also praised Root.

"He is a class player, he has done so much for England cricket, hence definitely not taking him lightly," said Narine.