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India and Bangladesh are all set to face off in a two-match Test series, beginning on September 19. The first Test will be held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, followed by the second and final Test at Green Park in Kanpur. The series promises to deliver intense cricketing action, as both sides are gearing up with a mixture of young talent and experienced players. For Bangladesh, the challenge lies in competing with one of the strongest Test sides in the world on their home soil. For India, it’s an opportunity to continue their dominance and sharpen their game ahead of future series.
A battle of batting brilliance
The India-Bangladesh Test rivalry may not be as old or storied as some other cricketing matchups, but it has produced some memorable batting performances. Over the years, several players have left their mark in these encounters, with their resilience and hunger for runs shining through. While bowlers have had their moments, it’s the batters who have consistently stolen the spotlight, posting big scores and leading their teams to commanding positions. The history between the two teams is marked by some of the most elegant and gritty batting efforts seen in modern Test cricket.
Here is the list of top five run-getters in India-Bangladesh Tests:
- 5) Virat Kohli (India)
Matches: 6, Innings: 9, Runs: 437, Highest Score: 204, Average: 54.62, 100s: 2, 50s: 0
Virat Kohli, India’s modern-day run machine, ranks fifth on the list with 437 runs from six matches. Known for his aggressive and authoritative style, Kohli has always enjoyed playing against Bangladesh, with his double century of 204 standing out as one of his finest Test innings. His ability to shift gears seamlessly makes him a constant threat. Kohli’s numbers in Tests are impressive, and despite his limited matches against Bangladesh, his contributions have been pivotal to India’s success in this contest. All eyes would be on him in the upcoming series.
- 4) Cheteshwar Pujara (India)
Matches: 5, Innings: 8, Runs: 468, Highest Score: 102*, Average: 78.00, 100s: 1, 50s: 5
Known as India’s ‘Wall’ of the current generation, Cheteshwar Pujara, takes the fourth spot with 468 runs in just five matches. Pujara’s ability to bat for long hours and grind out bowlers is reflected in his remarkable average of 78.00. He has been a pillar for India in their middle order, with one century and five half-centuries to his name in these contests. Pujara’s unbeaten 102 is a testament to his patience and technique, making him one of the most dependable players in India’s Test setup. However, he is not in the current India squad.
- 3) Rahul Dravid (India)
Matches: 7, Innings: 10, Runs: 560, Highest Score: 160, Average: 70.00, 100s: 3, 50s: 1
The legendary Rahul Dravid, who recently coached the Indian team, stands third on this list with 560 runs. Dravid, known for his solid technique and mental toughness, was a rock in India’s batting lineup for years. His ability to play long innings was perfectly encapsulated in his 160-run knock against Bangladesh. With three centuries in seven matches, Dravid consistently delivered under pressure, guiding India to safe shores whenever required. His consistency and reliability were the hallmarks of his career, and his contributions against Bangladesh were no different.
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- 2) Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh)
Matches: 8, Innings: 15, Runs: 604, Highest Score: 127, Average: 43.14, 100s: 2, 50s: 2
Mushfiqur Rahim, Bangladesh’s most successful Test batter against India, ranks second with 604 runs. The former Bangladesh captain has been a pillar of their batting order, often playing the role of a savior. Rahim’s fighting spirit and technical soundness have earned him respect in the cricketing world. His 127-run innings stands out as one of his best, as he led from the front during crucial moments. With two centuries and two fifties against India, Rahim’s contributions have been invaluable for Bangladesh in their pursuit of competitive performances against their stronger neighbor.
- 1) Sachin Tendulkar (India)
Matches: 7, Innings: 9, Runs: 820, Highest Score: 248*, Average: 136.66, 100s: 5, 50s: 0
At the top of the list is none other than the ‘God of Cricket,’ Sachin Tendulkar. With a staggering 820 runs in just seven matches, Tendulkar’s dominance against Bangladesh is unrivaled. His 248* is the highest individual score in India-Bangladesh Tests, a knock that underlined his class and ability to pile on runs effortlessly. Tendulkar’s incredible average of 136.66 speaks volumes about his consistency and hunger for big scores. With five centuries in just nine innings, Sachin’s record against Bangladesh remains a benchmark of excellence.