India turns to Tendulkar for final inspiration

MAHENDRA SINGH DHONI has hailed star batsman Sachin Tendulkar’s dedication to his craft as India aim to secure World Cup glory on home soil today.

Tendulkar is chasing the 100th hundred of a stunning 21-year career at international level, and though he fell just short of it with a charmed 85 against Pakistan in the semi-final, he could now reach the landmark in the sport’s showpiece match, in his home city, against Sri Lanka.

India captain Dhoni hailed the unique qualities that have enabled Tendulkar to stay at the very top since 1989.