IND vs ENG: When Sachin Tendulkar, 17 years old, scored a stellar Century at Manchester and almost pulled off a Victory

After losing the third Test at Lord's, team India will have a massive task as they gear up for the 4th Test against England. The match, set to be played at Old Trafford, will start on July 23. Although India have never won a Test match in Manchester, a young star's gritty knock once paved the

In the storied history of Indian cricket, few moments resonate as powerfully as a teenage Sachin Tendulkar's maiden Test century at Old Trafford, Manchester. At just 17 years of age, Tendulkar not only announced his arrival on the global stage but also helped India escape what seemed like a certain defeat against England in August 1990.

The second Test of the 1990 series saw India under intense pressure. The pitch was wearing, the English bowlers relentless, and the odds heavily stacked against the visitors. But what followed was a masterclass in temperament and technique from a boy barely out of school.

IND vs ENG: Sachin Tendulkar 119 Not Out, at the Age of 17

Tendulkar walked in at 109 for 4 and watched India slide further to 183 for 6. Joining forces with Manoj Prabhakar, the teenager played with maturity well beyond his years. His unbeaten 119 came off 189 balls and included 17 boundaries. More than the numbers, it was the manner of the innings that stood out-composed, assured, and supremely technical.

He survived a few nervous moments early on, including a dropped catch on 10, but never lost focus. His control off the back foot, balance against spin, and ability to pick gaps stood out. The century was completed with a trademark drive past mid-off-celebrated with quiet dignity.

A Crucial Partnership and a Draw Secured

Tendulkar's 160-run unbroken stand with Prabhakar (64*) was pivotal. It batted England out of the game and salvaged a draw for India. Against an experienced attack featuring Devon Malcolm, Angus Fraser, and Eddie Hemmings, the youngster didn't just survive-he flourished. India finished off at 343 for 6 and was almost extremely close to a victory as well.

India vs England, Manchester Test 1990

Earlier in the first innings, India captain Mohammad Azharuddin also scored a magnificent 179. Narendra Hirwani picked up 5 wickets in that match as well. Incidentally, Sachin also scored a decent 68 in the first innings for India.

India lost 0-1 in that three-match series, but their performance in the final two matches was widely praised.