Key Takeaways
India vs Pakistan at Centurion was the most anticipated match of the 2003 World Cup.
Pakistan posted a formidable total of 273, led by Saeed Anwar's century.
Sachin Tendulkar scored a sensational 98 off 75 balls, dominating Pakistan’s legendary bowling attack.
His innings included 12 fours and a six, with a strike rate of 130.66.
Though he missed a century, the knock is regarded as one of his finest performances.
Why is Sachin Tendulkar’s 98 against Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup considered one of his greatest innings?
Sachin Tendulkar’s 98 against Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup is hailed as one of his greatest knocks because it came in a high-pressure match, against a world-class bowling attack consisting of Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, and set the foundation for India’s memorable win. Despite not reaching a century, the impact and dominance of his innings made it more valuable than many of his hundreds.
In the biggest clash of the 2003 World Cup, Sachin Tendulkar delivered a masterclass against Pakistan at Centurion. His blistering 98 became one of the most iconic innings in World Cup history—crafted under pressure, against elite bowling.
Pakistan Set a Big First Innings Total
Batting first, Pakistan posted a strong 273, a daunting total in 2003. Saeed Anwar led with a brilliant century, while others like Inzamam-ul-Haq and Younis Khan provided solid support. It was a complete batting effort against a quality Indian bowling attack.
Sachin Gave India the Perfect Start
In reply, Sachin Tendulkar took on the feared pace trio of Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar. He started aggressively, dismantling the attack with 12 fours and a stunning upper-cut six off Shoaib. India raced to 50 quickly, with Tendulkar in full flow.
Sachin The Match Winner
Tendulkar’s 98 off just 75 balls was the match-defining innings. With a strike rate of 130.66, he scored 54 of his runs in boundaries. His dominance neutralized Pakistan’s bowling and set India up for a comfortable win. Though he fell short of a hundred, the magnitude of his innings far outweighed the number. Tendulkar himself places this knock among the best of his career—and fans remember it as one of the most influential performances in World Cup history.
Also Read | Best Sachin Tendulkar ODI innings
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