Over the years India has faced some of the best batting talents in Test cricket, players who have always risen to the occasion and scored big. From old legends to current stars, many have troubled India’s bowling attacks over the years.
This article looks at the top players who have scored the most Test centuries against India, and how they performed under pressure against the top team.
3. Garry Sobers – 8 Centuries
Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the all-time greats of cricket, is third on this list with 8 Test centuries against India. The West Indian all-rounder loved playing against India, scoring 1,920 runs at 83.47 during his career.
His 8 centuries were the most by anyone against India during his time, a record that stood for over 50 years. This record was broken in 2022 when Joe Root scored his 9th century against India in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
3. Vivian Richards – 8 Centuries
Another legend here is Sir Vivian Richards, who also loved playing against India, like Sobers. In the 70s and 80s India and West Indies used to play each other in Test cricket and Richards would always perform, show his talent and fearlessness.
He scored 1,927 runs against India at 50.71, with 8 centuries, same as Garfield Sobers. Richards would always play his best against India, was one of the most feared batsmen of his time.
3. Ricky Ponting – 8 Centuries
Ricky Ponting, along with Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar, was one of the best Test batsmen of his generation is another big name on this list. The former Australian captain would always perform under pressure and would do well against India.
In 29 Test matches against India, Ponting scored 2,555 runs at 54.36, with 8 centuries. He would dominate India’s bowling and was one of their toughest opponents.
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2. Steven Smith – 11 Centuries
Steve Smith is also on this list. He is second on this list for most Test centuries against India. Known for his unique style and focus, Smith has always troubled Indian bowlers with his ability to change his game and dominate.2,356 runs in 24 Tests at 58.90, 11 centuries, his record is impressive. One of his centuries was in the 2023 WTC Final at The Oval, when Australia won. Then he scored two more centuries in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, when Australia won the title after 10 years.
1. Joe Root – 12 Centuries
Joe Root is at the top of this list with 12 Test centuries against India, the most by anyone. A master of classical shots and composure, Root has a great record against India, both at home and away.
His recent century in Manchester was his 12th against India, and he finished off well. Root also has the most Test runs against India, over 3,000 at 59.99 and still going strong.
