Karachi: Former Pakistan skipper Moen Khan's comment that Sachin Tendulkar is scared of fast bowling has evoked a huge debate here.
Interestingly, many Pakistan cricketers themselves have come forward in support of Tendulkar.
"Some cricketers believe that if they make such controversial statements then they can catch the headlines," remarked former Pakistan captain Mushtaq Mohammad to Gulf News.
One of the greatest
"It might be Moen's opinion, but as far as I am concerned Sachin is one of the greatest cricketers of all time and certainly one of the greatest batsmen at the moment. It is our good fortune that he was born in this subcontinent and I feel that he has at least five years of cricket left in him. I don't think he is scared of any pacers."
Zaheer Abbas, too, rejected Khan's statement saying. "It sounds like a wrong statement. Sachin is still a wonderful and great player. Not only India, but entire Asia is proud of his achievements," said Abbas, who had a long chat with Tendulkar at the Arabian Sea Country Club on Friday.
Hanif Mohammad too praised Tendulkar's exploits but revealed that he is a Virender Sehwag fan now.
"I've been quite impressed with Sehwag. He's a totally different type of opener, someone who likes to go for his shots. Things were different in our time ? the game needs more Sehwags," he said.
Greatest admiration
Pakistan hockey star Sohail Abbas, who was also present at the Country Club, said that he was also a Tendulkar fan. "When I was young, among the Indians I had the greatest admiration for Sunil Gavaskar.
"Now I am a Tendulkar fan," said Abbas, who still holds the record for the highest number of goals in international hockey.
