#OTD in 2010: Sachin Tendulkar became most capped Test cricketer

On this day, twelve years ago, Sachin Tendulkar became the most capped Test cricketer, by featuring in the 169th Test match of his career against Sri Lanka at Colombo. In this pursuit, he got past the former Australia skipper Steve Waugh, who appeared in 168 matches. 

Tendulkar was coming into this game after scoring a double ton in the second Test fixture and was in supreme touch. However, Sri Lanka had a lead of 1-0, and the crowd were in anticipation of a close contest in the final game. 

India take a minor lead in first innings

Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka had a solid start with the contributions of Tillakaratne Dilshan (41), Kumar Sangakkara (75) and Mahela Jayawardena (56). 

In the middle-order, Thilan Samaraweera (137) and Angelo Mathews (45) further propelled Lions to a score of 425.  For the visitors, Pragyan Ojha scalped four wickets. 

Tendulkar and Sehwag in 3rd Test

In response, Virender Sehwag (109) and Tendulkar (41) instilled confidence into the Indian team. Afterwards, VVS Laxman (56) and Suresh Raina (62) guided the team well. 

The contributions of 40+ runs each from Abhimanyu Mithun and Amit Mishra helped India to finish on 436, and take a 11-run lead in the first innings. For Sri Lanka, Suraj Randiv was the most successful bowler with four wickets. 

All-round performances help India level the series

In the second innings, the Indian spinners, Mishra, Sehwag, and Pragan Ojha picked up three wickets apiece to dismiss Sri Lanka for 267. Thilan Samaraweera was the top-scorer for Lankan Lions with 83 runs. 

Then, Tendulkar (54) looked composed with his innings to provide a stable platform for the lower middle-order. The likes of Laxman (103*) and Raina (41*) continued their glorious form to help India chase 257 and level the series 1-1. 

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