Sachin Tendulkar reveals 1999 Test series against Australia was the toughest in his career

Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar is one man who united a billion Indians whenever he took the cricket field. His fans all over the world refer to him as the ‘God of Cricket’. But very few know the Sachin Tendulkar behind the lenses. They now have a chance to see his struggles, his success, failures, the emotions and even romance with Anjali, through the film ‘Sachin: A Billion Dreams’.

Sachin was seen in various promotional events in the last few weeks. He revealed many unknown facts from his life, including who started the famous “Sachiiin…..Sachiiin” chant. Now, he has revealed the toughest series of his cricketing life. On Tuesday, Sachin announced that the 1999 Test series against the Aussies was the toughest of his 24-year career.

Tendulkar reveals

Sachin was the captain of the Indian national team at that time. Steve Waugh was leading the baggy greens. Waugh & Co. humiliated the Indians, as his classy side won the three-match Test series 3-0, thereby handing a white was to India. They won the three matches by the margins of 285 runs, 180 runs and an innings plus 141 runs respectively. Australians clearly bossed world cricket at that time, and India were no match for them.

“The toughest series without any doubt was in 1999 when we went to Australia and they had a great side. In a team of 11, you had literally seven to eight match winners and the rest were also very good. I still remember in Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney, the brand of cricket they played, impressed the whole world. Everyone wanted to play that brand of cricket. Though we all respect our styles of playing, but everyone felt that the brand of cricket they played was special. They were able to do that consistently. It was a

“Everyone wanted to play that brand of cricket. Though we all respect our styles of playing, but everyone felt that the brand of cricket they played was special. They were able to do that consistently. It was a world class team,” recalled Sachin.

When asked about which format of cricket is best according to him, he said: “If I have to compare Test cricket and ODI cricket, without any doubt, the greatest satisfaction is when you do well in Test cricket and you do something special for the team.”

He also revealed he had a tough time facing late Hansie Cronje.

“From 1989 when I started playing there would be at least 25 world class bowlers. But someone I didn’t enjoy batting against was Hansie Cronje. For some reason I got out and over a period of time I realised that I am better off being at the non-striker’s end. I would talk to whoever was (the other batsman) on pitch I would say if (Allan) Donald or (Shaun) Pollock is bowling from other end I will manage but take more strike of Hansie.” revealed Sachin.

Fans have relished many wonderful moments gifted by Tendulkar on the 22 yards. Now they will be looking to fill up the theatres, to know more about his life and get inspired.