The Australian speedster jumped to the Indian batsman's defence, saying he should not come under any pressure while making the decision.
NEW DELHI: Even as the debate over Sachin Tendulkar's retirement continued, Australian speedster Brett Lee on Monday jumped to the Indian batsman's defence, saying he should not come under any pressure while making the decision.
"A lot has been said about this but no, Sachin should not retire. He should play till 50. On a more serious note, I think that this is something which only he can decide," Lee said.
"I can only say, I love watching him play and want him to continue as long as possible," he said.
Ever since India's World Cup debacle, Tendulkar has come under criticism for his poor form and some former players like Ian Chappell have advised him to call it quits.
The express bowler, who is currently recuperating from an ankle injury, is frustrated at missing out on the World Cup action but promised a comeback within the next two months.
"Its very frustrating to sit out...I feel like jumping into the TV when I see the matches. But my rehabilitation is going very well. I have a minor operation this week, which will take care of whatever healing that is left," he said.
"Comeback should be very soon, in a couple of months to be precise," he added.
Speaking about Australia's unbeaten run in the showpiece event, Lee said he was confident of the defending champions retaining the title but felt trans-Tasmanian rivals New Zealand could prove to be a tough nut to crack.
"Aussies are playing some fantastic cricket in the World Cup and I am hoping that they continue to do so. But New Zealand are a potential threat as they have been in awesome form," he said.
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