On this day in 2010, spectators at the Captain Roop Singh Stadium in Gwalior experienced a historic moment as Sachin Tendulkar became the first player in One Day International (ODI) history to score a double century. Facing a strong South African bowling lineup, Tendulkar delivered a remarkable unbeaten innings of 200 runs from just 147 balls, a feat previously unattained in the 50-over format. His performance was a masterclass in batting, showcasing both elegance and authority, highlighted by 25 fours and three sixes. This extraordinary display captivated the cricketing community, further solidifying his status as the 'Superman' of Indian cricket.

India chose to bat first, with Tendulkar opening alongside Virender Sehwag, who also displayed impressive form as the innings unfolded. Tendulkar's shot selection was flawless, demonstrating his ability to handle both pace and spin with exceptional skill. As he approached the 190s in the 45th over, anticipation filled the stadium—would he accomplish the remarkable? Despite facing only nine balls in the final five overs, he maintained his composure and, with a delicate push to cover, achieved the historic 200-run milestone in the last over, leaving the cricketing world in astonishment.

A record-breaking knock

Tendulkar's extraordinary innings enabled India to achieve an impressive total of 401 for 3, marking their second score exceeding 400 runs within a span of just three months. His performance eclipsed the long-held record for the highest individual score in One Day Internationals (ODIs), which was 194, a record established by Pakistan's Saeed Anwar in 1997 and later matched by Zimbabwe's Charles Coventry in 2009. For almost 13 years, Anwar's record stood unchallenged until Tendulkar's remarkable performance broke it. The total set by India proved insurmountable for South Africa, who were dismissed for 248, resulting in a decisive victory for India by 153 runs.

More than a milestone

Tendulkar's double century represented not merely a personal achievement; it marked a pivotal moment in the history of ODI cricket. Merely two years later, Virender Sehwag eclipsed this record with an explosive 219 against the West Indies. Subsequently, a wave of remarkable performances ensued, with Rohit Sharma etching his name in history by scoring three double centuries, including the unprecedented highest ODI score of 264. Additionally, Martin Guptill, Chris Gayle, and Fakhar Zaman also entered this prestigious group. More recently, India's emerging talents, Shubman Gill and Ishan Gill, have also recorded ODI double hundreds. Nevertheless, despite the emergence of these new records, Tendulkar's innings continues to be regarded as the benchmark—the inaugural achievement of its kind.

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