Who is Sachin Tendulkar?
Sachin Tendulkar is a former Indian cricketer and captain, widely regarded as one of the greatest batters in history. He holds the record for most runs in international cricket and is the only player to score 100 international centuries.
Early life and background
Tendulkar was born in Bombay in 1973. He took up cricket at eleven under coach Ramakant Achrekar at Shivaji Park, often playing several matches a day. At school he shared a record partnership of 664 runs with his friend Vinod Kambli.
Career highlights
- Test debut (1989): played against Pakistan in Karachi at just sixteen, facing a strong pace attack.
- 1990s: became the backbone of India’s batting, famous for innings such as his “Desert Storm” centuries in Sharjah in 1998.
- 2003 World Cup: named Player of the Tournament.
- First ODI double century (2010): the first man to score 200 in a one-day international.
- 2011 World Cup: won the title at home in his sixth World Cup.
Major achievements
He scored more than 34,000 international runs and 100 centuries, and played 200 Test matches, the most by any player. Wisden ranked him the second-greatest Test batter after Don Bradman.
Expertise
Tendulkar was famous for perfect technique, balance and the ability to play every shot, along with remarkable consistency over 24 years.
Leadership and impact
He inspired a generation of Indian cricketers and turned cricket into a national passion. His farewell Test in Mumbai in 2013 was watched by millions.
Recognition
He became the first sportsperson to receive the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, in 2014. He also served as a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha.
Lessons for your career
Tendulkar’s career shows that dedication, humility and continuous practice can sustain excellence for decades.
Timeline: key moments
- 1973Born in Bombay
- 1988664-run school partnership
- 1989Test debut at 16 against Pakistan
- 1996Becomes India captain
- 1998Desert Storm innings in Sharjah
- 2003Player of the Tournament at the World Cup
- 2010First ODI double century
- 2011Wins the Cricket World Cup
- 2012100th international century
- 2013Retires after 200th Test
- 2014Awarded Bharat Ratna
Sachin Tendulkar carried a billion hopes for 24 years and set records that may never be broken.
