BCCI: Sachin can retire whenever he wants

Reports that India legend Sachin Tendulkar has been asked to retire after playing his 200th Test have been rubbished by the BCCI, who say they would never demand the Little Master's resignation.

Reports that India legend Sachin Tendulkar has been asked to retire after playing his 200th Test have been rubbished by the BCCI, who say they would never demand the Little Master's resignation.

The 40-year-old batsman is still part of the Test team and is on 198 caps. He is set to play his 200th game against the West Indies later this year, and it was rumoured he had been asked to hang up his boots after that.

But the BCCI have denied this, saying they would not influence Tendulkar's decision. The batsman, who started playing for India at age 16, has been under constant media watch, given his decline in form and lack of Test century since January 2011.

BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel said: "That is absolutely absurd and rubbish. Let me tell you, it will be the prerogative of Mr Sachin Tendulkar. Board has not talked or asked him to resign and the Board is never going to do it because he is such a great player.

"We appreciate the concern (from media) about this. But I ask my good media friends, please refrain (from speculating) and from going (ahead reporting) with such wrong details.

"It is entirely up to Sachin Tendulkar and selectors. The selectors should (choose to) pick him and Sachin Tendulkar should be ready to play. Board is very happy with whatever (decision) Sachin Tendulkar is taking of his own free will."