Sachin Tendulkar is widely regarded as the greatest batter to ever play the game of cricket. With over 34,000 international runs, including a record 18,426 in ODIs, Tendulkar’s name is etched in cricketing history. His unparalleled consistency, elegance, and ability to perform under pressure made him the backbone of the Indian batting lineup for over two decades.
By 1996, Tendulkar was at the height of his powers. He had already cemented his place as one of the world’s leading batters, but his exploits during the 1996 World Cup truly showcased his brilliance on the grandest stage. Even though India’s journey in the tournament ended in anti-climax, with a heartbreaking semi-final loss to Sri Lanka, Tendulkar was the undisputed star of the group stages.
His performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of spectacular – he had carried India’s batting line-up with remarkable consistency, top-scoring for India in four of their five group matches. These innings included two centuries and two half-centuries.
