BCCI to let Sachin Tendulkar choose venue for his 200th Test

With both Cricket Association of Bengal and Mumbai Cricket Association having put in a request with the BCCI to stage Sachin Tendulkar's 200th Test, the board has decided to leave it to the Little Master to decide the venue.

Though the dates of the series vs West Indies are out, BCCI will take a call on the venues, later this week after Sachin gets back to them. According to BCCI's rotation policy neither Eden Gardens nor Wankhede Stadium can host a Test. Bangalore and Ahmedabad have their turns this time. However, Mumbai can be a 'sentimental' choice. (Read: West Indies tour of India to begin on October 31)

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly on Thursday said that it would be a fitting tribute if the Mumbai batsman plays the milestone match at his home ground. (All for Sachin's 200th Test in Mumbai: MCA)

"It would be the biggest thing if Tendulkar gets to play the 200th Test in Mumbai purely on emotional grounds. He has all his friends and family members there," Ganguly said on Tendulkar.

 

Tendulkar, however is open to playing this Test anywhere in the country. "He has no qualms about playing at any centre," a source said.

Tendulkar is looking forward to the marquee Test after recovering from a hand injury he suffered in the IPL. Reports say he would like to have some first class games under his belt before he plays the two Test against the West Indies. A source said Tendulkar is likely to play some Ranji matches for Mumbai to get some match practice before the Tests.