Jonty Rhodes lauds Tendulkar's double century

Mumbai, Feb 27(ANI): South Africa's greatest cricket fielder, Jonty Rhodes, is the latest to laud Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar's double century.

Speaking to journalists in Mumbai, Rhodes, a current fielding coach for Indian Premier League (IPL) team the Mumbai Indians, said he was optimistic about the team, especially its star player, Tendulkar.

"I think the makeup of the Mumbai Indians team for season number three is looking really strong and positive. Anybody who comes off a double century in a one day international 50-over game must be in very good form," said Rhodes.

Tendulkar became the first batsman to hit 200 runs in a one-day international on Wednesday, and set up a 153-run win and a series victory for India over South Africa.

While Rhodes may not have any qualms about Tendulkar with the bat, he said he will be keeping a close eye on him on the field.

"I'm not worried about him with the bat because he's a master. I'm not concerned. I'll be watching him in the field and he knows that. I spoke to him on the phone two nights ago and I told him, 'No excuses, I don't care how many runs you score in a one day game, you still got to be out there diving around'," Rhodes said.

"I think there's enough pressure on Sachin to be Sachin, so the coaching staff don't worry about that. He just goes out there. He plays the best cricket he knows how to and let's face it, that's an amazing effort," he added. (ANI)