Ace offie Muttiah Muralitharan said he believes India start favourites for the forthcoming Asia Cup.

"They have to start as favourites, because they have done well in Australia. They also performed in a few series before that, like in South Africa; so they will start as favourites," Muralitharan told an Indian news website.

"I would like them to start as favourites, because we have to come back and beat them," he added.

The off spinner was also effusive in praise for Sachin Tendulkar who is moving towards Brian Charles Lara's record for most runs in Test cricket.

He said Tendulkar is a legend and deserves to break all records that come his way.

"Everyone knows Sachin is a great player, a legend of cricket. But getting those 171 runs won't be easy, because we will also try to stop him. But he is also a great player and he will, at some time, cross it. That record won't be on his mind because he will try to play and win for India." said Murali.