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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is soon to honour master blaster Sachin Tendulkar with the rank of Honorary Group Captain. According to IAF sources, Air Headquarters has already finalized Tendulkar's name for the honour. There was considerable debate as to what rank the great batsman should be given. Wing Commander and Squadron Leader were deemed too junior for the national icon, who has played for India for over 20 years. Sources said the Air Headquarters has already forwarded the necessary files to the Defence Ministry. The Prime Minister Office (PMO) and the President's consents are required before awarding any rank of the armed forces. So, Tendulkar's fans will have to wait for some time before seeing their icon in IAF uniform. In 2008, the Territorial Army made film star Mohanlal an Honorary Colonel. It conferred the same honour on Kapil Dev, while industrialist Vijaypath Singhania was made an Air Commodore for holding a world record in high altitude hot balloon flying.

Air Force to make Tendulkar Group Captain