The India-Australia cricket rivalry is a testament to the beauty of the longest format of the game. From the inaugural series in 1947/48 to the present, these contests have given fans moments to cherish. The vastly different playing conditions in both countries add intrigue to this rivalry, pushing players to their limits. Among those who stood tall in this epic saga are five Indian batsmen who excelled against the Aussies, etching their names in cricket history.
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Top 5 Indian Batsmen Who Has Scores Most Runs Against Australia in Test Cricket
1. Sachin Tendulkar – The Undisputed Champion
Runs: 3630 | Average: 55 | Centuries: 11
Sachin Tendulkar’s record against Australia is a testament to his greatness. With 3630 runs in 39 matches, Tendulkar is India’s highest run-scorer against the Aussies and second only to England’s Jack Hobbs (3636) overall. Starting his journey against Australia in 1991, Tendulkar consistently delivered match-winning performances.
His 11 centuries and 16 half-centuries highlight his consistency across different conditions. One of his most iconic innings came in Sydney in 2004, where he scored an unbeaten 241, showcasing his unparalleled concentration and precision. Australian bowlers often viewed him as their biggest obstacle, a reflection of his dominance in this rivalry.
2. VVS Laxman – The Aussie Nemesis
Runs: 2434 | Average: 49.67 | Centuries: 6
VVS Laxman’s performances against Australia are etched in cricketing folklore. Scoring 2434 runs in 29 tests, more than 27% of his career test runs came against the Aussies. His partnership with Rahul Dravid at Eden Gardens in 2001, where he scored an unforgettable 281, remains one of the greatest test innings of all time.
Between 1998 and 2012, Laxman consistently thwarted the Australian attack with his graceful stroke play. His six centuries and 12 half-centuries underline his reliability and ability to rise to the occasion.
3. Rahul Dravid – The Wall Against the Aussies
Runs: 2143 | Average: 39.68 | Centuries: 2
Rahul Dravid, fondly known as “The Wall,” was a key figure in India’s success against Australia. With 2143 runs in 32 matches, Dravid’s contribution was crucial in building partnerships and stabilizing innings.
His highest score of 233 at Adelaide in 2003, which led to a famous Indian victory, exemplified his determination and technique. Despite facing some of the fiercest bowling attacks, Dravid managed two centuries and 13 half-centuries, consistently playing the anchor role for India.
4. Cheteshwar Pujara – The New-Era Run Machine
Runs: 2074 | Average: 49.38 | Centuries: 5
Cheteshwar Pujara has been India’s rock in test cricket against Australia in recent years. With 2074 runs in 25 matches, Pujara’s contributions have been instrumental in multiple Border-Gavaskar Trophy victories. He topped the scoring charts for India in the BGT 2016/17 and 2018/19 series and was the second-highest Indian run-getter in the BGT 2020/21.
His patient knocks in the 2018/19 series, where India claimed their first-ever series win in Australia, showcased his ability to wear down bowlers. Between 2010 and 2023, Pujara accumulated five centuries and 11 half-centuries, making him a formidable force against the Australian attack.
5. Virat Kohli – The Aggressive Leader
Runs: 2042 | Average: 47.48 | Centuries: 8
Virat Kohli’s aggressive approach and hunger for runs made him a standout performer against Australia. In 25 matches, Kohli amassed 2042 runs at an impressive average of 47.48. His eight centuries are the second-most by an Indian against Australia.
Kohli’s captaincy in the 2018/19 series marked a historic moment, as India secured their first-ever test series win in Australia. His highest score of 186 exemplified his ability to dominate attacks and play match-winning knocks.
These five batting maestros showcased unparalleled skill, resilience, and determination against one of the toughest opponents in test cricket. From Tendulkar’s unmatched consistency to Laxman’s flair, Dravid’s fortitude, Pujara’s grit, and Kohli’s aggression, each player brought unique strengths to the table. Their contributions have not only defined India-Australia encounters but also enriched the legacy of test cricket itself.
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FAQs
Who is the highest run-scorer for India against Australia in Test cricket?
Sachin Tendulkar holds the record with 3630 runs in 39 matches at an average of 55.
Which Indian batsman scored the iconic 281-run knock against Australia?
VVS Laxman played the unforgettable 281 at Eden Gardens in 2001, leading India to a historic win.
How many centuries has Virat Kohli scored against Australia in Tests?
Virat Kohli has scored eight centuries against Australia in 25 matches.
Who was India’s top scorer in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2018/19?
Cheteshwar Pujara was India’s highest run-scorer in the BGT 2018/19 series.
