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Vadodara, the cultural heart of Gujarat, has long held a special place in Indian cricket history, particularly through the iconic Reliance Stadium (formerly known as IPCL Sports Complex Ground). For cricket fans in the city, this venue became synonymous with one name: Sachin Tendulkar, the Master Blaster, who turned it into his personal fortress in One Day Internationals.
Tendulkar scored three ODI centuries here across six matches, amassing an astonishing 442 runs at an incredible average of 85.60. What makes this record even more remarkable? He earned the Player of the Match award in every single one of those century games — a testament to his dominance and match-winning ability on this batsman-friendly pitch.
Here are the unforgettable knocks that cemented Reliance Stadium as one of Sachin’s happiest hunting grounds:
- 115 vs New Zealand – October 28, 1994
This was only Sachin’s second ODI century ever (following his maiden ton against Australia in Colombo just weeks earlier). In the Wills World Series match, New Zealand posted 269/4. Tendulkar, opening the innings, crafted a composed 115 off 136 balls (strike rate ~84.55), guiding India to a comfortable 7-wicket victory with 11 balls to spare.
It was a defining moment early in his career, solidifying his role as a reliable opener and showcasing the elegance and timing that would define him for decades.
Here are some glimpses of Sachin in action during his early days at venues like Vadodara:
- 122 vs South Africa – March 17, 2000
By now, Sachin was a global superstar, and this was his 25th ODI century. In the Pepsi Cup thriller, South Africa batted first and set a challenging 282/5. Tendulkar responded with a masterful 122, anchoring India’s chase and helping them secure a thrilling 4-wicket win with just 1 ball remaining.
The high-scoring encounter highlighted the venue’s true batting paradise nature, and Sachin once again walked away with Man of the Match honors. - 100* vs West Indies – January 31, 2007
In the later phase of his ODI career, Sachin showed his evolving aggressive side. In a rain-affected 4th ODI of the West Indies tour, India posted a mammoth 341/3 — the highest team total ever at the ground. Tendulkar remained unbeaten on 100 off just 76 balls (strike rate 131.57!), blending classical drives with powerful hitting.
This knock, his 41st ODI century, powered a dominant 160-run victory and capped his Vadodara legacy with flair.
The Reliance Stadium, with its passionate local crowd and flat tracks, suited Sachin’s game perfectly. No wonder he never scored a Test century here — Vadodara has never hosted a Test match! These three tons stand as highlights of why the city adored him so much.
As international cricket returns to Vadodara today (January 11, 2026) with the India vs New Zealand 1st ODI at the new Kotambi Stadium, it’s a fitting tribute to Sachin’s enduring legacy. The Master Blaster truly owned this city on the field — his magic still echoes every time cricket returns to Vadodara.
Here’s a look at the iconic Reliance Stadium that witnessed these legendary innings:
And one more classic shot of Sachin dominating the crease:
Sachin Tendulkar didn’t just play cricket in Vadodara — he created timeless memories for every fan lucky enough to witness them. 🏏
