17000 runs and still counting, next best is about 13500 runs, the unsatiated fire still burning for more, the legend continues. On top of it Sachin Tendulkar today played one of his most memorable knocks in ODI history.
Chasing 350, Indians started well with Sehwag and Sachin. What followed was nothing short of stupidity and within a span of few overs the whole middle order succumbed and was back in pavilion. Gambhir, Yuvraj and Dhoni, all match winners on their day, back without even one reaching the double figures. The one constant was Sachin, slowly building the innings with Sehwag and once Sehwag was gone, Sachin just started belting bowlers and milking runs, piercing infield with precision of a surgeon and belting boundaries of every possible loose ball he was given. The tap for threes to mid wicket were highlights of this innings. He was setting up the field and palying with opposition's mind like never before. There was a time when Ricky Ponting ( Australian skipper ) had to give one over spells to his bowlers, such was the effect of tornado that sachin was churning. Only Suresh Raina played with some sense and stayed at the crease, and on days like these, this is all that is required.
All Sachin needed was a person to stay at the other end. But as usual, it ended up being a Sachin v/s Australia game. Last few times, Australians had persevered and this time too they were successful. The scorecard tells the whole story of a sorry batting lineup. That the lower order could not make 19 in 3 overs with 4 wickets to go is a testimony to the fact that even after 20 years of cricket Sachin is Indian Cricket and Indian Cricket is Sachin Tendulkar. The legend continues ....
