Published Nov 20, 2024, 10:13 am IST
India vs. Australia has been one of the most exciting rivalries in cricket history, delivering unforgettable matches since their first encounter in 1947-48. The contrasting playing conditions in the two countries add a layer of intrigue, making every series unique. Over the decades, many Indian batters have risen to the challenge, dominating Australian bowlers at home and away.
Here’s a look at the top five Indian batters who have scored the most runs against Australia in Test cricket.
Former Indian captain Virat Kohli has an outstanding record against Australia across formats. In Test cricket, he ranks fifth among Indians with the most runs against the Aussies.
In 25 matches, Kohli has amassed 2042 runs at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries (the second-most by an Indian vs. Australia) and five half-centuries. His highest score of 186 reflects his dominance with the bat. Kohli's leadership was historic; under him, India secured their first-ever Test series victory in Australia in 2018-19.
Known for his grit and resilience, Cheteshwar Pujara has been a thorn in Australia’s side. Between 2010 and 2023, Pujara played 25 Tests against them, scoring 2074 runs at an average of 49.38.
Pujara was instrumental in India’s victories in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, emerging as the highest scorer in 2016-17 and 2018-19, and the second-highest in 2020-21. His tally includes five centuries and 11 half-centuries, proving his consistency across challenging conditions.
Rahul Dravid, often referred to as The Wall, was a dependable batter for India in tough situations. Against Australia, he played 32 Tests between 1996 and 2012, scoring 2143 runs at an average of 39.68.
Dravid's contributions included two centuries and 13 half-centuries. His memorable 233 at Adelaide in 2003, and his partnership with VVS Laxman at Eden Gardens in 2001, underline his significance in India’s Test cricket history.
VVS Laxman had a special connection with playing against Australia, producing some of his career-best performances. He scored 2434 runs in 29 Tests between 1998 and 2012 at an impressive average of 49.67.
His innings of 281 at Eden Gardens in 2001 remains one of the greatest Test knocks of all time, helping India achieve a famous comeback win. Laxman’s six centuries and 12 half-centuries against Australia further highlight his ability to perform under pressure.
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The Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar tops the list with 3630 runs against Australia, the most by any Indian and second-most overall in Test cricket. Tendulkar played 39 Tests against Australia from 1991 to 2013, averaging 55 with 11 centuries and 16 half-centuries.
His innings of 241 not out in Sydney in 2004 showcased his mastery over the Australian bowlers. Tendulkar’s consistency and ability to rise to the occasion made him the Aussies’ biggest challenge for over two decades.
The India-Australia rivalry in Test cricket is more than just a contest—it’s a battle of grit, skill, and legacy. These five batters have left an indelible mark on this storied competition, inspiring generations of cricketers and fans alike.
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TestINDvsAUSTeam IndiaVirat KohliCheteshwar PujaraRahul Dravidvvs laxmanSachin TendulkarRohit Sharma on being asked if England were rightly awarded the World Cup title in 2019
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