Chennai: Sachin Tendulkar found a yet another admirer in Australian skipper Michael Clarke, who on Wednesday said that the Master Blaster is the greatest cricketer he has seen and that he always loved playing against the genius. Nevertheless, the Aussie went on to add that his primary endeavour during the upcoming four-match Test series against India will be to stop the veteran from scoring too many runs.

However Clarke admitted that with the kind of player Sachin is, it would be difficult to contain the veteran despite having plans. “He is a great player and having plans won’t help if he gets going. He is the greatest I have seen and I have always loved playing against him. His sign of greatness is his longevity and consistency," Clarke said, adding that he enjoyed Sachin batting, but as an Australian captain he would like to ensure that he doesn't score too many runs.

The Australian skipper, however, is happy with the retirement of greats like Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman as his bowlers won’t feel the same kind of pressure they used to face in their presence. "It's nice for us that a lot of greats like Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman have retired. It's good that our bowlers don't need to bowl to them but the new players will like to stamp their authority on the game," Clarke said to a news channel.

When asked about taking a cue from England’s success in Indian conditions not very long ago, Clarke said that though they had been following the series, they can’t take India lightly on their home grounds. "India is a good team. Any team having Sachin Tendulkar will be a team to beat in their own country. To succeed in India patience and consistency will be key,” Clarke said.