Sachin Tendulkar's First Interview

Sachin Tendulkar is possibly the most hounded celebrity in the country. Everyone from the masses to the media wants a piece of him and journalists spend years in the profession trying to get that one coveted interview with the Master Blaster.

Access to India's greatest ever cricketer is obviously restricted, what with hundreds of reporters desperate to get exclusive wants, willing to dig out every detail from an illustrious career.Sachin Tendulkar is a carefully managed institution and over the last 24 years has mastered the art of dealing with the media as hundreds of thousands across the cricketing world hang on to every word he says, as sports editors across the country look for a new angle every time he opens his mouth. But 24 years ago, it was not the same articulate Sachin Tendulkar who spoke to Tom Alter at the Mumbai Gymkhana, in his first ever recorded interview.Sachin Tendulkar, then all of 15 was a shy, even nervous young boy waiting to make his mark in the big league.

Here are some parts of the interview that belonged to a different world and a different era.

Tom Alter: Sachin Tendulkar, you must be getting tired now of people asking you questions and giving interviews. Sachin Tendulkar: No, because I think this is just the start.

Alter on whether it would be too early for the young batting sensation to go to the West Indies. Sachin Tendulkar replies: Of course I will be happy.

Alter on the prospect of facing the likes of Marshall and Ambrose at such a young age. Sachin Tendulkar: I will have no trouble facing Marshall.

Alter on his preference for fast bowlers. Sachin Tendulkar: I love facing fast bowlers because the ball comes straight on to the bat.

Alter on his bowling skills Sachin Tendulkar: I bowl medium pace. I will be bowling small spells.

Alter on how it was to face Kapil Dev:

It was very good. I did not have any problems facing him.