The Ashes: England's Secret Weapon Against Australia? Sachin Tendulkar's son, Arjun!
England used Arjun Tendulkar's left-arm pace bowling to prepare for the Australian speedsters ahead of the second Ashes Test at The Lord's
Sachin Tendulkar has never had anything to do with the historic Ashes series. Ahead of the second Test though, his son - Arjun - could become the key to England's fortunes in what is the most eagerly-followed cricketing rivalry around the world. After all, helping Alastair Cook and Company train for the clash ought to count for a lot. (2nd Test preview)
With the track at The Lord's expected to assist pacers, English batsmen were seen facing deliveries from left-armer Arjun on the eve of the match. His father may have bludgeoned pacers out of the park but the 15-year-old Tendulkar ensured his bowling left English batsmen nodding their heads in respect. (Also read: Brad Haddin may miss 2nd Test)
The role of the left-arm pacer will be crucial in the Lord's Test and Australia have two deadly ones - Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Johnson. Bowling to some of the world's leading batsmen at the Lord's nets must have been a dream come true for Tendulkar Junior. England are leading the series after winning the first Test at Cardiff.
Earlier this year, the talented Arjun was seen taking tips from Wasim Akram - one of the most dreaded swing bowlers cricket has ever seen. The former Pakistani captain later could hardly stop praising the enthusiasm and talent he saw.
"He is as enthusiastic as any 15 year-old passionate about cricket," Wasim had said. "I gave him some general tips about fitness and wrist position. I told him how to bring the ball back into the right-hander." (Read more here)
It is clear then that despite the pacey track at the Lord's, England fans will have to thank a Tendulkar for a change if their team blunts Aussie pace demons come Thursday. What Arjun will walk away with for sure though is the confidence of having played a part in a series as massive as the Ashes.