Sachin Tendulkar: The Master Blaster's Cricket Career
Sachin Tendulkar's remarkable career — records, playing style, greatest innings, and why he is considered the greatest batter of all time by many cricket fans.
Sachin Tendulkar is widely regarded as the greatest batter in cricket history. Nicknamed 'The Master Blaster' and 'The Little Master', the Mumbai-born right-hander played international cricket for India from 1989 to 2013 — 24 years — accumulating records that may never be broken. He remains the only player to score 100 international centuries across all formats.
Career Records
| Stat | Figure |
|---|---|
| Test runs | 15,921 |
| Test centuries | 51 |
| ODI runs | 18,426 |
| ODI centuries | 49 |
| International centuries (all formats) | 100 |
| Test matches played | 200 |
| ODI matches played | 463 |
Early Career
Tendulkar made his Test debut against Pakistan in Karachi in November 1989, aged just 16. Despite being struck by a bouncer and bleeding from his nose during that series, he refused to retire hurt. This early show of courage signalled the temperament that would define a legendary career. By his early twenties he was already recognised as the best batter in the world.
Greatest Innings
Among his many memorable performances, Tendulkar's 98 against Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup, his 136 against Pakistan in Chennai in 1999, and his 241 not out against Australia in Sydney stand out. His 200 not out against South Africa in 2010 was the first ever ODI double-century, a record later surpassed by Rohit Sharma.
Playing Style
Tendulkar's technique was near-perfect — a compact stance, exceptional footwork, and the ability to play every shot in the book. He was equally strong on the front foot and back foot, against pace and spin. His straight drive and cover drive were among the most aesthetically pleasing shots in cricket. He also possessed a ferocious pull shot that punished short-pitched bowling.
Legacy
Tendulkar retired in November 2013 after his 200th Test match, played in Mumbai — a farewell that brought an entire nation to a halt. He was awarded India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, making him the youngest ever and the first sportsperson to receive it. In 2010, TIME magazine named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
Frequently asked questions
How many international centuries did Sachin Tendulkar score?
Tendulkar scored 100 international centuries — 51 in Tests and 49 in ODIs — a record no player has come close to matching.
When did Sachin Tendulkar retire?
Sachin Tendulkar retired from all forms of international cricket in November 2013, after playing his 200th and final Test match in Mumbai.
Why is Sachin Tendulkar called the Master Blaster?
Tendulkar earned the nickname 'Master Blaster' for his combination of masterful technique and explosive stroke-making — both the craft of a technician and the power of a big hitter.