Reliving Sachin Tendulkar's Test hundreds: Centuries 21-25

#1: 25th Century – 126 against Australia at Chennai, 2001

Tendulkar has a very good record at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai

There’s no doubt that the 2001 Border-Gavaskar series was a series of comebacks, especially for the Indians. The 2nd Test saw a dramatic turnaround. Laxman and Dravid batted like champions to save India from defeat and then Harbhajan bowling India to victory to make the series 1-1.

Moving into the decider in Chennai, both teams were in with a chance. Tendulkar hadn’t scored runs in his last two innings (scored 10 and 10 after twin fifties in the first game of the series). Australia won a crucial toss at the MA Chidambaram Stadium and batted first. On the back of a magnificent 203 from Hayden, the Aussies posted 391.

Extra Cover: Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2001 - The series which re-established Indian cricket

India, in reply, made a strong start with SS Das and Ramesh forging a 123-run opening stand. And another good stand between Das and Laxman took India to 211/2 when Tendulkar walked out to bat. India were moving along steadily at that point in time.

But Tendulkar’s presence in the middle changed everything. He was busy at the crease, working the ball like a master and putting the loose balls away. The way he countered the likes of McGrath, Gillespie and Warne was outstanding. Along with Dravid, he constructed a wonderful 169-run partnership for the fifth wicket to take India into the lead.

Tendulkar scored a majestic 126, his 25th Test ton. His knock provided India a handy lead which eventually helped them win the game and the series.