One of the most unforgettable innings in Test cricket history came in 1998, when Sachin Tendulkar delivered a masterclass against Australia in the opening Test of their tour in Chennai. His magnificent unbeaten 155 guided India to a commanding 179-run victory, earning him the Player of the Match award and cementing his dominance over one of the world’s greatest bowling attacks.
The innings featured 14 boundaries and four sixes, highlighting Tendulkar’s fearless approach and remarkable control against Australia’s spin attack, led by legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne.
A gripping start to the historic Test
India began the match on a strong note after electing to bat first. Openers Nayan Mongia and Navjot Singh Sidhu stitched together a solid 100-plus partnership, giving the hosts a promising start.
However, Australia fought back through their spinners. Shane Warne and Gavin Robertson claimed four wickets each, restricting India to 257 runs in their first innings.
Australia responded strongly, posting 328 runs, thanks largely to a determined 90 by Ian Healy, giving the visitors a valuable lead and putting pressure on the Indian side heading into the second innings.
Tendulkar’s unforgettable counter-attack
When Tendulkar walked in during India’s second innings with the score at 115 for 2, the stage was set for a defining battle. Much of the pre-series discussion had centred around the contest between Tendulkar and Warne.
What followed was a display of batting brilliance.
Tendulkar launched a calculated counter-attack, repeatedly targeting Warne with aggressive strokeplay. He built a 113-run partnership with Rahul Dravid, stabilising the innings and shifting momentum in India’s favour.
He then added another significant century stand with Mohammad Azharuddin, continuing to dominate the Australian bowling attack.
Tendulkar remained unbeaten on 155 from 191 balls, scoring at a strike rate of 81.15. His innings powered India to 418, setting Australia a challenging target of 348 runs.
India seals memorable victory
Australia struggled against India’s bowling attack while chasing the steep target. The visitors were eventually dismissed for 168, handing India a comprehensive 179-run win in the opening Test.
Tendulkar’s innings proved decisive, not only turning the match but also establishing his authority over Australia’s world-class bowling unit.
A defining moment in cricket history
The Chennai innings remains one of the most celebrated performances in cricket history. It showcased Tendulkar’s technical mastery, mental strength and ability to dominate world-class spin bowling.
Years later, Shane Warne famously admitted that bowling to Tendulkar during that series had given him “nightmares”, a testament to the Indian legend’s dominance.
More than two decades later, Tendulkar’s 155 in Chennai continues to be remembered as a defining moment that shaped one of cricket’s greatest rivalries.