Sachin Tendulkar Says Virat Kohli's Batch Can Represent India For Next 10 Years

Sachin Tendulkar, on the sidelines of India's 500th Test, predicted that the current squad led by Virat Kohli could remain in the national fold for the next decade and is likely to dominate world cricket.

"We have a fabulous combination. The best part about all these players is that they are young and they will play for a while. I see this team playing together for eight to 10 years and dominating world cricket," Tendulkar told bcci.tv.

"We have the firepower, balance is really nice. If we continue to stick to these players, obviously there will be few changes here and there, but if players are fit, in proper shape and condition, we have bright days ahead."

Tendulkar added: "To be here for the 500th Test match, it's a great moment. There have been so many heroes whom we grew growing up. Being part of the history, we have been able to influence the next generation and leave some impression behind.

INTERVIEW - @sachin_rt speaks about his fondest of memories from Test Cricket, current #TeamIndia and morehttps://t.co/FBDKQcaTPn

- BCCI (@BCCI) September 22, 2016

The maestro, who has played 40 percent (200 Tests) of India's 500 Test matches, said a proper balance between bat and ball is needed for the benefit of Test cricket.

"There has to be a nice balance between bat and ball. The balance is not right as it's too much in favour of batsmen, to be fair. In T20s, batters go after bowlers. 300 is no more a safe target in ODIs. There has to be a format, where bowlers dominate the bat," Tendulkar said.

The highest run-getter in world cricket termed the pitch as a "typical Kanpur wicket".

"New Zealand will bat fourth in match. It is a positive sign. Test cricket is about knowing when to pace up, when to slow down, how to play a full match for five days," he said.