Sheet anchor role to

What an anti-climatic way to end the match. Even Karthik was disappointed that Tendulkar missed out on yet another well-deserved international ton. But, mind you, Tendulkar would not lose sleep over that for his innings made sure that India won the match and he would be happy for that. Sehwag at the top gave the innings momentum with his high octane innings and from then on Sachin took over, playing the sheet anchor role to perfection to guide India to a win. The score of 240 was never enough on this wicket and India romped home to lead the series 2-1.

Could you please explain to me the highlighted parts?
Particularly the phrase "sheet anchor role to".