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[saurabhjain]

MUMBAI, Jan 12: Nearly seven years after he relinquished captaincy of the Indian team, Sachin Tendulkar is back in a leadership role. Tendulkar's appointment as vice-captain of the Indian team for the forthcoming ODI series against West Indies was perhaps the most interesting development of Friday's selection committee meeting.

Of course, the fact that recent vice-captains like VVS Laxman (Test) and Virender Sehwag (ODIs) were not considered for selection and Anil Kumble was rested, left the selectors with no other option.

"It's because of Sachin's experience. If something happens to Rahul or if he has to leave the field at any time, then he can take over," explained Dilip Vengsarkar, chairman of selectors.

What's most relevant is that this time around Tendulkar did not refuse a leadership role. When Vengsarkar and his panel sought Tendulkar's consent, the master batsman was more than willing.

This is a big change, because in the past Tendulkar has declined Mumbai job and even captaincy of one of the Challenger Series teams during the 2005 edition in Mohali.

So is this long-term move? "I can't say anything about that. We will take it as it comes," said Vengsarkar. Even after he gave up captaincy, Tendulkar has been part of the think-tank, taking decisions on team compositions and strategies during Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid's regime.

On the recent South Africa tour he was de facto vice-captain during the ODI series when first vice-captain Sehwag and then skipper Dravid were missing because of injuries.

And before the last Test at Cape Town, Tendulkar was one of the key seniors consulted before an out-of-form Sehwag was picked.

Some may link it as a move to get the maestro more involved with the side, but Vengsarkar is quick to dismiss these suggestions. "He is always helpful to his captains. He is always very involved," said Vengsarkar.


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