Sachin Tendulkar, famously known as the “God of Cricket,” is celebrated globally for his exceptional batting skills. Over the years, he played a pivotal role in many iconic matches for Team India. However, Tendulkar wasn’t just a batting maestro; he also demonstrated his bowling prowess on numerous occasions. Though primarily a batsman, Sachin contributed significantly with the ball whenever his team needed a breakthrough. He developed expertise in pace, off-spin, and leg-spin bowling, making him a versatile all-rounder when required. Tendulkar was often called upon by his captains to break stubborn partnerships, becoming a reliable bowling option for India.
In his illustrious career, Sachin took 154 wickets in ODIs and 46 wickets in Test cricket. Additionally, in his only T20 match, he also claimed a wicket. Across all formats, Tendulkar ended up with a total of 201 wickets. Despite not bowling frequently in Test matches, his bowling best in Test cricket stands at 3 wickets for 10 runs.
Sachin Tendulkar’s Iconic Moment in the 2004 Multan Test
During India’s 2004 tour of Pakistan, Sachin Tendulkar had one of his most memorable bowling performances. In the Multan Test, Virender Sehwag decimated the Pakistani bowling attack with a record-breaking 309 runs, the first-ever triple century by an Indian in Test cricket.
Before the match, Tendulkar humorously challenged Pakistani batsman Moin Khan, stating, “I will take your wicket.” Moin Khan didn’t take the challenge seriously, but he was in for a surprise during the game.
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Story that @sachin_rt narrated for the first time. It was the 2nd last ball of the day and Abdul Razzaq was batting and Sachin deliberately moved fielders 2 to 3 steps back such that Moin Khan can come to bat as Sachin was playing mind game
[1]#HappyBirthdaySachin pic.twitter.com/9IhKbnPBmV
— AT10 (@Loyalsachfan10) April 24, 2023
India declared their first innings at a massive 675/6. In response, Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled, losing 5 quick wickets. Abdul Razzaq and Moin Khan were left fighting to stabilize the innings. On the third day of the match, the final over was given to Tendulkar. Sachin strategically placed three fielders deep to entice Moin Khan into taking a strike. On the last ball of the over, Tendulkar bowled a deceptive googly, clean bowling Moin Khan and fulfilling his pre-match challenge.
Tendulkar had a reputation for breaking crucial partnerships, and this ability added to his legendary status as a cricketer. India went on to win the Multan Test by an innings and 52 runs, making it a landmark victory for the team and an unforgettable moment in cricket history.
