There is always a first time for everything in this world. There was one for Sachin Tendulkar opening the batting for India in ODIs. It happened during India’s tour of New Zealand in 1994. Tendulkar, who started his career as a middle-order batsman was promoted up the order for the first time.

Having won the first ODI at Napier by 28 runs, Ken Rutherford, the then New Zealand captain, won the toss and chose to bat in the second ODI at Auckland. New Zealand’s innings never got the start or the stability that they were looking for. Resultantly, they got bundled out on 142 in 49.4 overs.

Chris Harris was the highest run-scorer as he scored 50* (71) with the help of three fours and a six. For India, off-spinner Rajesh Chauhan picked up three wickets, whereas Javagal Srinath, Kapil Dev and Salil Ankola picked up a couple of wickets each.

India, who were without Navjot Singh Sidhu in this match sent in Tendulkar to open the innings alongside Ajay Jadeja. The latter started playing the big shots from the word go, courtesy of which India sealed victory in the 24th over. Tendulkar ended up scoring 82 (49) with the help of 15 fours and two sixes in a ‘Man of the Match’ performance. Watch the full video: