Kolkata,
Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday said the triumphant Indian U-19 side stood out from the rest of their competitors in the just-concluded World Cup.

“The way they have prepared themselves, physically, mentally, their planning and the execution was on top. That’s why it was evident that the Indian team stood out from the rest of the competitors,” Tendulkar said, after flagging off the Kolkata Full Marathon here this morning.

India lifted a record fourth Under-19 World Cup trophy after an eight-wicket rout of Australia in the final yesterday in New Zealand.

India had all their bases covered with the bowlers’ bouncing back to dismiss Australia for 216 from 183/4 in the 40th over. The highly-rated batting completed the job with conviction as India chased down the modest target in 38.5 overs.

“It’s been a tremendous achievement that requires a great team work to realise big dreams. We have been able to do that,” Tendulkar said.

He also heaped praise on the BCCI for providing the right kind of infrastructure to nurture the players.

“Credit to BCCI for giving them the infrastructure. In the last 15 years, playing has changed, standard of fielding has changed. It’s all because of better infrastructure and ground maintenance. It reflects on the field.”

Tendulkar also lauded the contribution of chief coach Rahul Dravid and the other members of support staff.

“Without any doubt, it’s a terrific contribution. It’s working for him (Dravid) along with the support staff, he (Dravid) himself said that. It’s been a joy to work with that.