Tendulkar gets a 'please explain' from High Court

Sachin Tendulkar, lauded only a few days ago by former South African international Pat Symcox for remaining squeaky clean in the face of controversy, has been asked to explain why he didn't have to pay duty on a Ferrari he received.

Tendulkar is in good company however. Also involved in the High Court's query is the Indian Government. The court wants to know why Tendulkar didn't have to pay 11.3 rupees duty for the gift from the Fiat company.

The gift was made by Fiat, who produce the Ferrari, in recognition of Tendulkar's feat in equalling Don Bradman's 29 Test centuries. It was presented to him by Formula One champion Michael Schumacher at Silverstone in England.

Newspaper coverage of Tendulkar picking up his duty-free red Ferrari 360 Modena from the airport and driving it home prompted the High Court to query the duty waiver. Tendulkar had requested a duty-free waiver.

The case will be heard on August 19.