Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar has been named the best Asian ODI batsman at the inaugural Asian Cricket Council awards.

At a glittering ceremony held at the majestic 19th century Mohatta Palace, the Indian players cheered as Tendulkar's name was announced by former Pakistan captain Rameez Raja. Tendulkar could not attend the function since he is nursing a groin injury and ODI skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni collected the award on his behalf.

The Sri Lankans dominated the ceremony with three of them walking away with top awards.

While wicketkeeper-batsman Kumar Sangakkara received the best Asian Test batsman award, his fellow teammates spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan and medium pace bowler Farveez Maharoof were named as the best Asian Test and ODI bowlers respectively.

Former India and Pakistan captains Sunil Gavaskar and Imran Khan were also felicitated with special awards named "legendary cricketers" of the neighbouring countries.

The ACC also gave away a special award of "best administrator" to former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) president Colonel (retd) Nur Khan.

PCB Chairman Nasim Ashraf, who took over as ACC President, said the awards were intended to honour and recognise the exceptional performers of the continent.

"Our sportsmen need to be recognised and rewarded for their achievements especially when Asia has now become a powerhouse in world cricket," he said.