Sachin Tendulkar bit his nails watching Lagaan: Aamir Khan

Indian cricket will not be the same without Sachin at the crease. He is the combination of genius, hard work, dedication, focus and intensity. A true perfectionist. I want to thank him for all he gave to Indian cricket and to all of us Indians. He embodies the collective pride of every Indian.When he hits a boundary we feel proud, when he scores a century we feel a sense of achievement, when he wins a match for India, our chest swells with pride. His high values, his integrity, all makes him a role model India will always be proud of. I have known Sachin for several years - he is a real film buff and we have watched many of my films together.Fortunately, he has liked them! I remember him so excited while watching Lagaan and even biting his nails while watching the last over of the match, in the film! Each game he has played is like a jewel, but the World Cup win was memorable because of the way his team lifted him on their shoulders; it was a win which had eluded him so I was so glad for him when it happened.His ability to read the game is awesome - I was watching an IPL final with him in the earlier years of the game... I was just blown by the way, he could predict every single ball, whether the bowler would now bowl a yorker or a short one or a bouncer and how the field would be changed when-it was nothing short of amazing.But it is the way that Sachin plays the rising ball outside the off stump which is my favourite. It must be a very emotional moment for him. But he has a lot to contribute to Indian cricket and guide Indian cricket and youngsters ahead.