Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar has turned down the chance to play in the ICC World Twenty20 tournament next month, cricket365.com reported on its website, Wednesday.

Tendulkar also skipped the first two editions of the World Twenty20 saying the younger players were better suited to the shortest form of the game.

Despite approaching 37, Tendulkar has continued his brilliant form this past year, with five Test centuries and three one-day hundreds in the last 12 months.

He also became the first player to score a double century in a one-day international recently as he broke that record against South Africa.

The from displayed by Tendulkar has led to a host of calls for him to play in the World Twenty20 in the West Indies in April, but the Little Master says he will not be going.

"I will not be playing the ICC World Twenty20," Tendulkar told CNN-IBN news. "I have not played Twenty20 internationals from 2007 onwards and I don’t think it should become an issue now."

The Mumbai Indians star has only played one Twenty20 international in his illustrious career, but his IPL form has continued to be strong, with 176 runs in four games this season at a strike rate of over 155.

"I hope the selectors can persuade Tendulkar to go to the West Indies," said former India batsman and commentator Navjot Sidhu.

"He loves playing for the country and the Indian team needs him more than ever before. He is batting like the champion he is."

Another former player, Mohinder Amarnath, also believes Tendulkar would give India a huge boost for the tournament, but accepted his decision.

"Sachin knows best what to do," said Amarnath. "He has played for so long that we must all respect his decision."

India, who won the tournament in 2007 but missed out on the semis two years ago, will pick their 15-man squad on Friday for the next edition of the event. 

Source: The Island Online