The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday described Sachin Tendulkar as an inspirational figure, and said that it was a fitting tribute that he was being awarded the Bharat Ratna for his contributions to the game of cricket.
In a statement issued here, BCCI president N. Srinivasan said: "Sachin Tendulkar is an inspirational figure, and a role model for all sportspersons. He richly deserves the Bharat Ratna. I extend my heartiest congratulations to him."
Srinivasan's statement was issued shortly after press note released by Rashtrapati Bhavan on behalf of President Mukherjee, announced that Tendulkar and eminent scientist Professor C.N.R. Rao have been awarded the Bharat Ratna.