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In the illustrious tapestry of Test cricket, certain luminaries have etched their names in history through a consistent display of batting brilliance against formidable opponents. The ability to score centuries, the hallmark of elite batsmanship, has been wielded by these players with finesse, leaving an indelible mark on the grand narrative of the sport. As the cricketing annals unfold, the records showcase a select group of players who have not only mastered their craft but have also demonstrated remarkable proficiency in accumulating centuries, especially when facing the challenge posed by the Indian cricket team.
Elite roster: Masters against India in Test
The saga of centuries against India in Test cricket unveils a distinguished list, featuring the crème de la crème of batting prowess. Each name in this elite roster signifies a chapter of resilience, skill, and domination in the face of one of cricket’s most formidable teams. This select group, led by Joe Root, Steve Smith, Gary Sobers, Vivian Richards and Ricky Ponting, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of batters who have not merely excelled but have carved their names in cricketing folklore through their prolific run-scoring abilities against India.
Joe Root’s historic feat: Leading the pack
Now, England’s star batter Root created history during the fourth Test against India by smashing a crucial hundred at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on February 23. Root became the batter with the most Test centuries against India, surpassing his Australian rival Smith. With an impressive tally of 10 centuries in 52 innings against India, Root’s proficiency in converting starts into three-figure scores has made him a formidable force in Test cricket.
Also READ: IND vs ENG: Cricket world goes berserk as Joe Root returns to form with his record century in Ranchi Test
Following closely is Smith, who has notched up 9 centuries in 37 innings against the Indian team. Smith’s unorthodox yet effective batting style has proven to be a significant challenge for Indian bowlers. Sobers, Richards and Ponting complete this distinguished list, each accumulating 8 centuries against India in 30, 41, and 51 innings, respectively. Their remarkable records stand as a testament to their exceptional skill and ability to dominate in the Test arena. Root’s 31st Test century further cements his legacy, marking a historic moment in the context of centuries against India.
Most centuries against India in Test cricket:
1. Joe Root (England): 10 Centuries
- Root stands tall at the summit, having crafted 10 centuries in 52 innings against India. His ability to convert starts into three-figure scores has made him a prolific run-scorer and a formidable opponent.
2. Steve Smith (Australia): 9 Centuries
- Smith, the Australian maestro, follows closely with 9 centuries in 37 innings against the Indian team. His unorthodox yet effective batting style has posed a significant challenge for Indian bowlers.
3. Gary Sobers (West Indies): 8 Centuries
- Representing the West Indies, Sobers etched his name with 8 centuries in 30 innings against India. His elegant and powerful batting style left an enduring impact on the cricketing world.
4. Vivian Richards (West Indies): 8 Centuries
- Another West Indian legend, Richards, shares the third spot with 8 centuries in 41 innings against India. His aggressive and fearless approach at the crease made him a nightmare for bowlers.
5. Ricky Ponting (Australia): 8 Centuries
- Ponting, the Australian stalwart, also notched up 8 centuries in 51 innings against India. His exemplary leadership and consistent run-scoring made him a thorn in India’s side.
