Sachin Tendulkar hits 100th international century for India

Sachin Tendulkar marks the moment he reaches his 100th Test century (GETTY IMAGES)

India batsman Sachin Tendulkar's long wait for his 100th international century came to an end today as he moved into three figures in the Asia Cup clash with Bangladesh.

The 'Little Master' has been stuck on 99 tons on the international stage since March last year, when he hit 111 in the World Cup against South Africa in Nagpur.

He has twice been out in the 90s since but today got over the line in Mirpur with a clip into the leg-side off the bowling of Shakib Al Hasan.

He raised his arms to the sky in a muted celebration before being congratulated by the Bangladesh fielders.

Tendulkar, who reached his century off 138 balls, made his first international ton in 1990 against England at Old Trafford at the start of what has developed into a wonderful career.

Today's was the 38-year-old's 49th in ODIs and his first against Bangladesh.

CLICK HERE: Sachin Tendulkar - a career in pictures

Tendulkar, the all-time leading scorer in both Tests and ODIs, had had to wait over a year to create his latest piece of history.

He failed to register a century on India's tour of England, the home series against West Indies and the tour of Australia.

International Cricket Council chief executive Haroon Lorgat was quick to pay tribute to Tendulkar.

He said: "On behalf of every cricket fan around the globe I congratulate Sachin on becoming the first person to score 100 centuries for his country.

"This is indeed a magnificent feat and not likely to be easily emulated.

"Fans have admired Sachin for more than 20 years and have recently waited with great expectation for his 100th international century.

"The number 100 is special for a batsman and to record 100 centuries for your country is a massive statement.

"Like millions of others I have personally followed his career ever since he first played for India as a gifted 16-year-old and now, more than two decades later, his passion and personal records, which include more than 33,000 runs at international level, is a modern day wonder.

"He is a marvel to cricket lovers around the world and with an array of batting records, Sachin is a true role model who will undoubtedly hold a special place in cricket's history."

PA