As international cricket makes its return to Gwalior, it presents a perfect opportunity to revisit a historic event from the last time the city hosted an international match. On February 24, 2010, the Captain Roop Singh Stadium witnessed an unforgettable moment in cricket history when the iconic Sachin Tendulkar became the first batsman to score a double century in One Day Internationals (ODIs). He achieved this remarkable feat against South Africa, finishing his innings with an unbeaten score of 200 runs off 147 deliveries.
In that match, Tendulkar faced a formidable bowling attack from South Africa, which included notable bowlers such as Dale Steyn, Jacques Kallis, and Wayne Parnell. During his innings, Tendulkar hit an impressive 25 boundaries and cleared the ropes three times, leading India to a formidable total of 401 runs for the loss of three wickets in their allotted 50 overs.
Tendulkar’s innings was marked by a series of milestones: he reached his fifty in just 37 balls, his century in 90 balls, and his 150 in 118 balls. In response, South Africa struggled against the Indian bowling lineup and were bowled out for 248 runs, resulting in a comprehensive 153-run victory for India.
Following the match, Tendulkar expressed his humble gratitude, stating, “I don’t know how to react to this. I would like to dedicate this to the people of India who have always stood behind me for these 20 years amid the ups and downs.” He praised his teammates for their contributions, particularly highlighting the impact of Yusuf Pathan and MS Dhoni in shifting the momentum of the game. As he approached the milestone of 200 runs, he realized he could strategically take singles to allow Dhoni to face more deliveries.
Tendulkar further reflected on his performance, emphasizing his enjoyment of the game: “I’ve always played the way I felt was right and done what I thought was best for the team. There have been moments of bad decisions, but as long as I know my actions are for the team, I’m confident in moving forward. It feels great to last for 50 overs; it’s a good test of my fitness.” He also expressed a desire to bat for another 50 overs to further test his endurance.
In recognition of his historic achievement, the Gwalior Division Cricket Association honored Sachin with a silver bat, named a pavilion in his honor, and presented him with a cash award of ten lakh rupees. Tendulkar’s landmark double century not only set a new record in men’s ODI cricket but also served as an inspiration for future generations of cricketers, as many more double centuries were recorded in the years that followed.
At the time of this milestone innings, Tendulkar was 36 years old, and his outstanding fitness and performance exemplified his longevity in the sport. This innings remains one of the most significant moments in cricket history, further cementing Sachin Tendulkar’s legendary status in the world of cricket. His unbeaten 200 has inspired countless aspiring cricketers and continues to be celebrated as a defining moment in the sport.
