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Sachin Tendulkar, often hailed as the "Little Master," is not just a name in the world of cricket; he is an institution. With a career spanning over two decades, Tendulkar has left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring millions of fans across the globe. Known for his extraordinary skills, unwavering dedication, and remarkable sportsmanship, he has set numerous records, many of which still stand today. This blog delves into 20 fascinating facts about Sachin Tendulkar, showcasing not only his achievements on the cricket field but also insights into his personal life and values. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or just curious about this legendary player, these facts will give you a deeper understanding of what makes Sachin Tendulkar a true icon in the world of sports.1
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Sachin Tendulkar remains the only cricketer to score 100 international centuries, a legendary achievement that solidifies his status as one of the greatest players in cricket history forever. 1
At just 16 years old, Sachin made his international debut against Pakistan in 1989, courageously facing iconic bowlers like Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, showing immense skill despite his young age. 2
In 1998, Sachin dominated the cricketing world by scoring over 1,800 ODI runs, including his famous "Desert Storm" innings of 143 against Australia, an unforgettable performance under intense pressure. 3
Tendulkar was the first cricketer to score a double century in One Day Internationals, achieving this incredible feat against South Africa in 2010, setting a new standard for batting excellence.
He holds the record for the most runs in Test cricket, amassing an unbelievable 15,921 runs across 200 matches, a monumental feat that remains unbeaten in cricket’s history. 4
During the 2003 World Cup, Sachin scored a phenomenal 673 runs, the highest by any player in a single World Cup tournament, leading India all the way to the finals. 5
In 2002, despite playing with a fractured rib, Sachin scored a brilliant 136 against Pakistan, showing immense courage, dedication, and an extraordinary love for the game. 6
Sachin is the only cricketer in history to have played 200 Test matches, setting a record for remarkable longevity and endurance over his illustrious 24-year international career.
In 2010, Tendulkar became the first player to surpass 2,000 runs in the Indian Premier League (IPL), proving his adaptability across different formats and competitive cricket environments. 7
He became the youngest Indian to score a century in international cricket at just 17, achieving his first hundred against England in 1990, a moment that stunned fans worldwide. 8
In 2012, Sachin became the first cricketer to surpass 34,000 runs in international cricket, a monumental milestone that highlights his unmatched consistency and longevity in the sport. 9
Tendulkar was named "ICC Cricketer of the Year" in 2010, recognizing his exceptional performances across various series, proving his dominance on the global cricketing stage.
Sachin scored over 1,000 runs in a calendar year in ODIs seven times, showcasing his remarkable ability to consistently deliver outstanding performances year after year.10
He remains the only cricketer to have scored more than 30,000 runs across all formats of international cricket, an achievement that confirms his legendary status in the sport. 11
Sachin’s straight drive was so perfect and elegant that it became his signature shot, admired by fans and aspiring cricketers across the world, a thing of pure beauty. 12
In 2011, Tendulkar achieved his lifelong dream by winning the Cricket World Cup, playing a crucial role in India’s triumph on home soil, delighting millions of fans worldwide.
Sachin’s autobiography, "Playing It My Way," became a bestseller, giving readers an intimate glimpse into his life, struggles, and journey to becoming a cricketing legend. 13
Tendulkar was named after his parents' favorite music director, Sachin Dev Burman, blending his passion for cricket with his family’s love for music, an intriguing lesser-known fact. 14
Sachin is the only cricketer to score centuries on both his Ranji Trophy debut and Test debut, showcasing his natural knack for delivering under pressure from the start. 15
In 2014, Sachin became the youngest and first-ever sportsperson to receive India’s highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, acknowledging his immense contributions to Indian cricket. 16
