22 August 2004	Sunday	05 Rajab 1425

AMSTELVEEN, Aug 21: Sachin Tendulkar was ruled out on Saturday of the whole of the triangular cricket series featuring Australia, India and Pakistan because of the onset of 'tennis elbow' in his left arm.

However India chiefs were confident of having Tendulkar fit for September's three One-day Internationals against England which take place ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy event, also in England, later that month.

The India star batsman's withdrawal was announced before the tournament opener between his team and arch-rivals Pakistan got underway on Saturday in a 10,000 sell-out at the VRA ground.

A statement issued by the Indian management said: "Sachin Tendulkar will not be participating in any of the matches of this tournament due to the onset of tennis elbow to his left arm.

"'Tennis elbow' is a term used to describe pain and inflammation in the region of the lateral elbow.

"Sachin initially experienced stiffness in the elbow whilst practising for long periods at home but dismissed the discomfort as minor.

"Unfortunately, on arrival here in Holland the stiffness and pain did not settle and was actually aggravated at the first net/batting session.-APP