Focus on cricket, not politics: Bal Thackeray tells Sachin

Mumbai, Nov 16 (ANI): Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray has slammed Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar for his statement that he is an Indian first and then a Maharashtrian.

In an article, which appeared in the party mouthpiece Saamna, Thackrey said Sachin should just concentrate on cricket and stay away from politics.

He also warned Sachin that he should not lose the goodwill he has earned in cricket by getting into the political arena.

He said Sachin's comment has hurt the sentiment of the Marathi Manoos.

"When Marathis shed their blood for Mumbai you weren't even born, you have been run out on the Marathi pitch," he added.

Replying to a question at a press meet on the eve of completing 20 years in international cricket, Sachin had said, Mumbai belongs to India. I am a Maharashtrian and am extremely proud to proud of that, but I am an Indian first. (ANI)