By IANS
New Delhi : In order to bind the Commonwealth fraternity, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown wants to propose the names of modern cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar for the honorary knighthood.
“It used to be the case that great cricketers from the Commonwealth would be recognised by the British people through our honoured system – we think of Sir Don Bradman or Sir Gary Sobers,” said Brown, who is on an official visit of India.
Brown lamented that the system of rewarding renowned sportspersons of the Commonwealth by the ‘Empire’ has “fallen into disrepair” as most of the Commonwealth countries have opted out of the honoured system and have their own honours.
“But I believe it was a good tradition to celebrate the achievements of the great Commonwealth cricketers — it shows we are good sports and I would like to see some of the great players of the modern era – like Sachin Tendulkar – proposed for honorary awards – so the British nation can salute their achievements in one of our national sports,” Brown said.
“Obviously, these are issues for the independent honoured committee, but I hope they will consider it,” he said.
Brown also congratulated the India cricket team, on its famous victory over Australia in Perth Test.