By Qaiser Mohammad Ali
IANS
Dhaka : Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar had to be given ice packs, lots of fluids and a chair to do some exercise on way to his 37th Test hundred as hot and humid conditions prevailed here Saturday.
The 34-year-old Mumbai batsman grew tired and weak and sweated profusely as he neared his century while India piled on the runs on the second day of the second Test against Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.
During one drinks break, when he was on 87, team physiotherapist John Gloster and trainer Greg King along with the non-playing team members brought in a chair, a bucketful of water, wet towels and lots of energy drinks for Tendulkar.
Gloster made Tendulkar lie down on his back and put his legs on the chair as he put two icepacks on his stomach and covered his face with a wet towel.
Tendulkar was, however, back on his feet even as the harsh weather took a toll on the batsmen, bowlers and fielders. He eventually reached his century in 295 minutes of hard grind after facing 201 deliveries.
The spectators also took refuge under the temporary tent on the upper tier of the stands, and hardly anyone ventured to sit under the harsh sun.