A player like Sachin Tendulkar cannot be rested: Akram

Adelaide: Baffled with the rotation policy, former Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram said it does not work in the sub-continent and the Indian team management should not have rested a player of Sachin Tendulkar's stature.

"Don't experiment with Sachin Tendulkar," warned Akram. "Rotation policy does not work in our part of the world. A player like Tendulkar cannot be rested. I mean, India did win without Tendulkar in Adelaide, but his presence always plays on the mind of the rival team. That's why he is a Tendulkar. His stature is just too big to ignore," he added.

The former speedster wondered if there were any fitness issues but said Tendulkar must play all matches.

"When you have doubts about Tendulkar's ability and preparedness, then there is something wrong with the team management.

"If you have a Tendulkar in the squad, you cannot afford to have him on the bench. He must play all games," Akram told a website.

The selectors might have given rest to the iconic batsman to ensure that Tendulkar is better prepared to score his 100th international century, but Akram felt the only way to make Tendulkar get to the landmark is to play him.

"If that's the objective then let Tendulkar achieve the milestone...If he gets a century, the whole team profits. And in any case, the rotation policy should be applicable for all 11 positions," he insisted.

Akram said though giving chance to youngsters is a step in the right direction, it raises questions on the future of senior players and Tendulkar also comes in the frame.

"Tendulkar is the greatest Indian player. When and how he wants to leave should be left to him. The BCCI and the selectors should have a chat with him. If he wants to play the 2015 World Cup, then fair enough. But if I was Tendulkar, I would opt out of ODIs and extend my Test career."