Sachin Tendulkar has been roped in as 2016 Rio Olympics’ Goodwill Ambassador for the Indian contingent. (Source: PTI) Sachin Tendulkar has been roped in as 2016 Rio Olympics’ Goodwill Ambassador for the Indian contingent. (Source: PTI)

Retired cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has accepted Indian Olympic Association’s invitation to become the Goodwill Ambassador for the upcoming 2016 Rio Olympics.

READ: Sachin Tendulkar’s acceptance letter in full

In what has been a controversial topic since IOA named Salman Khan as ambassador, the Olympic body were forced into naming other ambassadors after a furor over naming a non-sporting ambassador. Even now, Tendulkar’s nomination might pacify some due to his laurels in sports and for the country, some might question the selection given cricket is not part of the Olympics.

His statement to IOA expressed interest in meeting the athletes before they leave for Rio and any other awareness campaigns preceding the extravaganza in person or through social media.

The IOA Secretary General, meanwhile, said they are yet to get a confirmation from Rahman. “Mr. Rahman is yet to communicate to us but we are hopeful that he will also accept our invitation,” Mehta said.

Asked about what specific role the goodwill ambassadors would play, Mehta said: “These iconic sportspersons and celebrities will spread the idea of Olympic movement in every nook and corner of the country, every village, block and city of India.

“They will help in building up a sporting culture in this country. We need a sporting culture if we want to become a sporting country,” he added.

📣 The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and stay updated with the latest headlines

For all the latest Sports News, download Indian Express App.