Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar's absence in the ongoing triangular series in Sri Lanka, due to a hairline fracture to his right toe, will give greater opportunity to youngsters to perform and prove themselves, the chairman of the selection committee Chandu Borde said today.

Talking to PTI over phone from Pune, Borde said "of course, no one can replace Tendulkar but at the same time it will be a great opportunity for the youngsters to show their true mettle. They (youngsters) should grab this opportunity with both the hands and score runs to establish themselves," he added.

"There is a ten-day gap between the tri-series and three Test matches and I only hope that Sachin will be fit in time for the Tests," Borde said.

India take on New Zealand in their opening match in the Coca Cola Cup in Colombo tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Dr Anant Joshi, who has been treating Tendulkar's injured foot, said another bone scan would be taken in a couple of weeks time to judge the healing progress. "We are trying to reduce the load on the injured area and he has been adviced not to run and walk as less as possible for speedy recovery," he added.

© PTI