On March 16, 2012, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar etched his name in history by scoring his 100th international century during an Asia Cup match between Bangladesh and India at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. This long-awaited milestone was one of the most iconic moments in cricket, bringing joy not just to Indian fans but to cricket lovers worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at this memorable match and its significance.

Match Summary

India faced Bangladesh in a crucial Asia Cup match, where Sachin Tendulkar played a masterful innings of 114 runs off 138 balls. His knock included 12 fours and a six, helping India post a competitive total of 289/5 in 50 overs. However, despite Sachin’s heroics, Bangladesh successfully chased the target, winning the match by 5 wickets. While the defeat was disappointing for India, Sachin’s milestone overshadowed the result, making it a historic day in cricket.

How the 100th Century Was Achieved

After winning the 2011 World Cup, cricket fans eagerly awaited Sachin’s 100th century. However, it took him more than a year to achieve this feat. Several times, he came close, reaching scores in the 80s and 90s, but failed to convert them into a century, leading to growing anticipation and pressure.

Finally, in the 44th over of the innings against Bangladesh, Sachin took a single to reach his 100th century. As soon as he achieved the milestone, the stadium erupted in applause, and cricket fans around the world celebrated this remarkable achievement.

The Unbreakable Record: 100 International Centuries

Sachin Tendulkar remains the only cricketer in history to score 100 international centuries. This incredible record is a testament to his consistency, skill, and dedication to the sport.

Breakdown of Sachin Tendulkar’s 100 International Centuries:

• Test Cricket: 51 centuries
• ODI Cricket: 49 centuries

Reaching this milestone required 23 years of relentless hard work, and many believe it will be one of the toughest records to break in cricket history.

India’s Loss, But Sachin’s Victory

Despite Sachin’s heroics, India lost the match as Bangladesh successfully chased the target with 5 wickets in hand. Key contributions from Tamim Iqbal, Shakib Al Hasan, and Mushfiqur Rahim helped Bangladesh secure the win. However, the outcome of the match could not take away the significance of Sachin’s achievement.

Reactions from the Cricket World

Sachin’s record-breaking century was met with congratulations from all over the world.

• MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rahul Dravid praised his dedication and contribution to the sport.
• The International Cricket Council (ICC) and several cricket legends hailed the achievement as a golden moment in cricket history.
• Even former players and sports analysts acknowledged that this record might stand the test of time for decades.

Conclusion

Sachin Tendulkar’s 100th international century was more than just a personal milestone; it was a historic moment in cricket that showcased his unwavering commitment to excellence. While India may have lost the match, Sachin’s name was forever etched in cricket’s golden records.

Will any cricketer in the future break this legendary record? Only time will tell. But for now, Sachin’s achievement remains an unparalleled feat in the world of cricket.