Tendulkar re-signs with WorldTel

Indian batting maestro and arguably the world's leading figure in the game Sachin Tendulkar has re-signed with WorldTel to handle all his commercial endorsements and marketing activity over the next five years.

Tendulkar and WorldTel president Mark Mascarenhas made the announcement in Bangalore on Wednesday where Tendulkar is currently attending the conditioning camp prior to the Indian tour of Zimbabwe.

"We are delighted," said Mascarenhas from his office in Bangalore, where WorldTel is headquartered. "During the last five years our appreciation of Sachin has grown in leaps and bounds. This is not just because of his performances on the field but it is also about him off the field."

Tendulkar, 28 expressed his happiness at the continuation of the agreement. "I am happy. There has been considerable speculation in the market but the break from a busy cricket schedule has given us the opportunity to cement our relationship. WorldTel has done a great job in handling my affairs and I look forward to more years of association."

WorldTel originally signed Tendulkar in October 1995 for a five year deal, guaranteeing him an income that made him the richest cricketer in the world. When the contract ended, there was speculation as to which company Tendulkar would sign a fresh deal. Wednesday's agreement ends all such doubts.

No figures involved in the new deal were immediately available though the press release by WorldTel speaks of "a record deal."