The chances of Sachin Tendulkar making it to the Indian Test squad for the West Indies series appear bright, as the star batsman did everything but bowl on the third day of his training stint at the MRF Pace Academy on Wednesday.
"I am very happy about the workouts and batting practice. Things are looking to be falling in place," Tendulkar said at the end of the day's training.
After going through his routine physical training at the hotel gym this morning for 90 minutes, the Mumbaikar showed awesome agility and did not look sapped even after four hours of batting and training drills.
The ace batsman had two 45-minute sessions of batting during when he had a few trainee fast bowlers, as also India seamer Laxmipathy Balaji, bowl at him from a shortened run-up.
He then moved on to catching practice, both skiers and chest high ones, but threw back the ball with his left arm. He also opted to use his right hand for throws but they were 'under arm' returns.
Despite the strenuous sessions, Tendulkar felt fresh and went for a 15-minute session of pilates -- a method of physical and mental exercise involving stretches and breathing that focus on strengthening the abdominal core -- well after darkness had set in.
In effect, Tendulkar did everything but bowl.
Former Indian physio Andrew Leipus, who watched every bit of Tendulkar's work-out and batting, did not say it in as many words, but seemed happy about the progress of the star.
Later, the master batsman took time out to interact with the young trainees of the MRF academy.
Tendulkar also did not disappoint a hundred-odd fans as he signed autographs for them.
