With the monekgate scandal fresh in the minds of the Australian fans, they are in no mood to forgive the 'little master', who played an important role in helping Harbhajan Singh come out clean of the entire episode. It might also be due to the same reason that Hayden is not happy with the decision to confer Tendulkar with the award. Not only Hayden, some Australian politicians have also shared their discontent against the decision.

Opinions are divided, where former Indian cricketer, Kris Srikkanth said in this ANI video, “Sachin Tendulkar has done brilliantly in Australia. He is such a great player and has achieved so much and I am so happy that the Australian government is recognising him and giving him that recognition which is very important. For an Indian to achieve it is simply amazing and awesome.”

It is evident that the Australian PM by conferring such an award is interested in India's economy as it is one of the most developing markets. There is a political angle to it, which is not a rocket scientist to understand. It is nothing but a soft diplomacy tool played by the Australian Prime Minister. But does this do justice to Australians who have done so much for their country and have still not been awarded with such merit? If Gillard wanted to award a cricketer, they have one of the legends of the game from Australia, Shane Warne, who has brought so much pride to the nation.

Though, Tendulkar when he got to know about it was elated and said, “I indeed feel privileged and honoured at receiving this recognition," reported sify.com, but he may have to rethink on receiving the award after the negative criticism surrounding the award. Tendulkar has always been someone, who kept aloof from controversies, so it would not be surprising if he does the same this time as well, but it is not going to be an easy task, as his rejection might not please the Australian PM.

Australians have a general respect for the player he is, but if he receives the award, it might not go well with the Aussies and they might start to hate the player. This is certainly what Sachin Tendulkar does not want at the twilight of his career. He has received a number of awards, so it could be wise enough for him to let go this award. This would send positive signs for fans in Australia, after which the respect for the little master is only going to multiply.