Bangalore: Former captains Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble saluted Sachin Tendulkar on Friday, for setting the benchmark in world cricket and inspiring millions of countrymen to take up the game.

Describing Tendulkar as a role model, Dravid said he always looked up to the Mumbai batsman, who is set to retire from Test cricket after playing his milestone 200th match next month. Dravid admitted that he tried to achieve the level of excellence and standard set by Sachin.

“He was the benchmark against which all us batsmen in the Indian team judged ourselves. I wish Sachin goes on forever. But these things don’t happen – that’s life.

“It is a moment to celebrate this great achievement for someone who could achieve excellence and standard of performance for 24 years. He is a true role model,” Dravid said.

“It is a great time to relax and enjoy (retirement). I hope his family enjoys the occasion as well, because it is truly going to be a special couple of Test matches and hopefully he gets a chance to soak it all in and have a good life after it,” he added.

Anil Kumble said Tendulkar has seen about 150 cricketers, including those who came after him, retiring from cricket. This was a testimony to his longevity, skill and ability to perform consistently at the highest level.

“Sachin has influenced every cricketer for the last 24 years to take up the game and has touched millions around the globe,” he said, adding that he would be in the spectators’ gallery when his former team-mate takes guard for one last time in Mumbai next month. (PTI)