Cricket purists recall February 24, 2010, as the dawn of a new ODI era. Sachin Tendulkar’s trailblazing unbeaten 200 vs South Africa at Gwalior demolished the 200-run barrier, inspiring generations and elevating tactical horizons in limited-overs play.
India, buoyed by a 1-run opener win, batted first. Sehwag (9 off 11) fell early, but Tendulkar-Karthik’s 194-run stand (Karthik 79) ignited fireworks. Pathan’s 36 bolstered to 300+, then Dhoni’s unbeaten 68 in a 101-run partnership pushed to 401/3. Tendulkar’s 147-ball vigil: pure dominance.
South Africa imploded chasing. De Villiers’ 114 off 101 was lone resistance amid 248 all out. India’s bowlers shone: Sreesanth 3/49, others with twin strikes.
Though South Africa won the third ODI by 90 runs, the series spotlighted Tendulkar’s genius. His knock validated fitness-driven aggression, paving way for 11 more ODI double tons. February 24 transcends stats—it’s the day ODI cricket dreamed bigger, thanks to the Little Master’s visionary strokeplay.