On this day, February 27, in 2011, Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar scored his last World Cup century in a group match that concluded in a thrilling tie against England at Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium. Throughout most of the 2011 World Cup, India displayed remarkable cricketing excellence, except in encounters with South Africa and England. Despite losing to South Africa and tying with England, India's performance was marked by Sachin Tendulkar's outstanding contribution.
Sachin Tendulkar's 120 powered India to 338
India batted first and Tendulkar showcased his enduring class and form with a superb 120 off 115 balls. His fifth World Cup century, a record at the time, powered India to a formidable total of 338 runs. Tendulkar's performance displayed both skill and power, with 10 fours and five sixes, showing he could overpower the strongest bowlers globally.
England's reply was led by Andrew Strauss, who played an equally impressive innings of 158 runs. The match turned into a fierce battle between the two sides, with fortunes swinging back and forth. Despite the increasing pressure, the Indian bowlers, spearheaded by Zaheer Khan's crucial wickets, managed to bring the game to a thrilling conclusion. England needed two runs off the last ball to win but could only score one, resulting in only the fourth tie in World Cup history.
The tie was an unusual outcome in the high-stakes atmosphere of the World Cup, leaving players and fans with mixed feelings. For India, it was a game that flaunted their batting depth and ability to handle pressure. For England, it was a missed opportunity but also demonstrated their determination. The captains of both teams expressed their feelings of disappointment and relief, recognising the rarity and excitement of the match they had just experienced.
Tendulkar's big day fueled India's World Cup win
The 2011 World Cup held significant importance for Tendulkar and India. It not only saw one of his best World Cup performances but also ended with India lifting the trophy, fulfilling a dream Tendulkar had cherished since childhood. His teammates dedicated the victory to him, acknowledging his immense contribution to Indian cricket.
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