Sachin of the verge of a first class record

22 October, 2012

Sachin Tendulkar has scored 78 first class centuries and is just 3 tons away from equaling Sunil Gavaskar's record of 81 centuries. With Tendulkar in the final lap of his career, will he break this record too?

SACHIN TENDULKAR has eclipsed most of the cricket batting records that existed since the game of cricket was born. You name it and he has broken all big records. He is the first and only player to score 200 runs in a single ODI innings, has held most number of matches, scored most number of centuries, just to name a few. But, in spite of breaking such records, he is still three centuries short of Sunil Gavaskar's first class record of 81 centuries.

Sachin Tendulkar is at the fag end of his career and he does not have much time to break this record. With key series coming up against England and Australia, the 'little master' wants to get in perfect shape for the series as well. He has decided to turn out for the domestic tournament - Ranji Trophy, where he will play for his home side, Mumbai against Railways.

During the process, it will also give him an extra game to break Gavaskar's record. Many were taken by surprise when the Indian batsmen decided to pad up against Railways, as the BCCI has been preserving him for important matches only. Some may say that he is after the record.

With Tendulkar turning 40 next year, how many matches does he have it in him? The last Test series against New Zealand exposed his weakness to the incoming ball, which does not auger well for the Indian maestro. It would not be surprising if he calls it a day after this two home series' against England and Australia.

These two series' may not be enough for Tendulkar to break Gavaskar's record, with the quality of bowlers at the opponents disposal. Looking at Tendulkar's form, it might be a herculean task to break this record. But, if he does, it could also be the right time for him to retire from the game on a high, as it would mean he has scored 4 centuries in his last two series.

But, Tendulkar may no longer be interested in records, but only finishing the game on a high, as he has got almost all records in his kitty. Let Sunil Gavaskar also find his name in the record books, for he has also been a fine servant of Indian cricket.