Some knocks are remembered for the records they create, while some stay alive because of emotions that they carry. On May 23, 1999, Sachin Tendulkar delivered one such unforgettable knock that touched millions of hearts. Returning to the 1999-world cup a few days after his father’s demise, Sachin scored an unbeaten 140 against Kenya while staying not out. A knock that became more than just a century, turning into a heartfelt tribute to his late father watched by millions around the world.
Former Indian cricket team captain and legendary batsman Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar has scored as many as 100 international centuries during his 24 long year career as a team India player. But out of those 100, his century against Kenya in Bristol, England, during the 1999 World Cup match was one of the most special ones. Sachin was going through personal tragedy and grief but still managed to come on the ground and hit a memorable hundred, which he later dedicated to his father. Sachin’s father passed away on 19th may 1999 during the cricket mega event for which Tendulkar had to return home for four days for the last rights.
In that important group-stage match against Kenya, Sachin came to bat at number four after opener Sadagoppan Ramesh lost his wicket in the 21st over, he remained at the crease till the end of 50 overs. He added 237 runs for the third wicket with former Indian captain and now head coach Rahul Dravid who scored 104 in 109 balls while being not out as well and helped India post a total of 329 runs on the board for the loss of two wickets.
During his time at the crease, the Master Blaster faced 101 balls and, with the help of 16 fours and 3 sixes, scored 140 not out. After reaching the three-figure mark, he raised his bat and dedicated his hundred to his father.
Sachin was too emotional after his father’s sudden demise, and he only returned to the World Cup when his family insisted. In Sachin’s absence, India had suffered a shocking defeat against Zimbabwe, and therefore, the game against Kenya was a must-win match for India, and the legendary batsman did not disappoint the Indian cricket fans and did just enough to revive India’s campaign.
However, India did not qualify for the semi-finals, Sachin helped the Indian team reach the super six stage. They finished 6th overall in the tournament.
The tournament was eventually won by Australia marking their 2nd title, which came after defeating Pakistan.
This article is written by Divya Sharma, a student of Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, interning with Deccan Chronicle.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: deccanchronicle.com
