Introduction
March 16, 2012, remains an unforgettable day in cricket history as Sachin Tendulkar etched his name in the record books by scoring his 100th international century. The landmark moment came during India’s Asia Cup match against Bangladesh in Dhaka, a feat that no other cricketer has achieved. After months of anticipation and immense pressure, Tendulkar reached the milestone, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest batters of all time.
The Build-Up to the 100th Century
Before reaching this iconic milestone, Tendulkar had been stuck on 99 international centuries for over a year. His 99th hundred came against South Africa in the 2011 World Cup, and since then, the wait for the 100th century had become a major talking point in world cricket. Fans, analysts, and even fellow cricketers eagerly anticipated the moment, but each time he walked out to bat, the weight of expectations grew heavier.
Throughout 2011 and early 2012, Tendulkar came close multiple times but fell short on each occasion. The prolonged wait added to the pressure, and the cricketing world watched anxiously every time he took the field. It was in the Asia Cup match against Bangladesh that he finally achieved what seemed inevitable, bringing immense joy to millions of cricket fans.
The Historic Innings Against Bangladesh
Batting first in Dhaka, India needed a strong foundation, and Tendulkar provided just that with a controlled and composed innings. He started cautiously, focusing on rotating the strike while dispatching loose deliveries to the boundary. His approach was measured, balancing aggression with patience as he built his innings.
As he neared the milestone, the crowd held its breath, waiting for history to unfold. Finally, with a gentle push towards square leg for a single, Tendulkar reached his 100th international century. The stadium erupted in applause, and even opposition players acknowledged the greatness of the moment. He went on to score 114 off 147 balls, anchoring India’s innings with a classic display of stroke-making.
Impact and Legacy of the 100th Century
Tendulkar’s 100th century was more than just a personal achievement—it was a moment of pride for Indian cricket and a testament to his longevity in the sport. It reflected his unwavering dedication, discipline, and hunger for excellence over two decades at the international level.
With this record, he became the first and only cricketer to reach 100 centuries across all formats, a feat that still stands unmatched. His accomplishment was celebrated worldwide, with former cricketers, sports legends, and fans pouring in tributes. The milestone also highlighted his consistency, adaptability, and ability to perform under immense scrutiny.
Conclusion
Sachin Tendulkar’s 100th international century in the Asia Cup 2012 was a historic moment that solidified his legacy as the “God of Cricket.” While India lost the match to Bangladesh, the day was remembered for Tendulkar’s unparalleled achievement. Even years later, his 100-century record remains untouched, a testament to his greatness and an inspiration for generations of cricketers to come.
