Tendulkar Might be out of Final Match

[Tom420]

[img]http://www.cricinfo.com/db/PICTURES/CMS/116300/116383.2.jpg[/img]

Sachin Tendulkar, the Mumbai Indians captain, has injured a finger on his right hand during the semi-final against Royal Challengers Bangalore, making him uncertain for the final on Sunday. Tendulkar, who was bleeding after attempting a low slip catch, rushed back to the dressing room and had five stitches.

Zaheer Khan, who led Mumbai in Tendulkar's absence on the field, said his team will take a call on his participation in the final in two days. "We are little bit worried but we will take a couple of days to decide (on his availability for the final)," Zaheer said. "Every team he has played for has relied on him. It was unfortunate he got out early today and got injured. But we have reached the final and all the credit goes to him.

"I hope he plays in the finals. We all expect him to play. We just have to remain patient."

Tendulkar sustained the injury in the fourth over of Royal Challengers Bangalore's chase, when Rahul Dravid edged Zaheer. Replays indicated a part of the ball had touched the ground as Tendulkar clasped it, and the batsman was ruled not out. It appeared as though Tendulkar had split his webbing, and he immediately made his way to the pavilion for some medical attention.