Aus v Ind Tests : India's top 5 rungetters in Australia

 

The India-Australia rivalry in Test cricket is a story of drama, excellence, and unforgettable moments. Over the years, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has offered everything, from extraordinary individual performances to dramatic collapses, making it a fascinating contest to follow.

Despite the challenges posed by Australia’s fast and bouncy pitches, a handful of Indian batters have managed to excel, cementing their legacy with remarkable performances in such conditions. As anticipation builds for the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, let’s revisit some of the highest run-scorers for India in Test matches played on Australian soil.

Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar remains India’s highest run-scorer in Australia in the Test format. Across 20 matches and 38 innings, Tendulkar accumulated a staggering 1,809 runs at an impressive average of 53.20, including six centuries and seven half-centuries. Among his many iconic performances, his unbeaten 241 at Sydney in 2004 stands as a masterpiece of technical precision and adaptability.  During his first ever Australia tour at the age of 18 a young Sachin carved out two masterpieces at Sydney (148*) & Perth (114). His 100 at Perth on a bouncy pitch at such a young age when the  rest of the batting struggled was a clear indication that a prodigy had arrived and he went on to thrive down under in subsequent tours . Sachin's best tour in Australia was in 2007-8 visit when he was piling on the runs & scored 2 big hundreds at Sydney & Adelaide.  Tendulkar’s unmatched consistency and brilliance make him the benchmark for Indian batters in Australian conditions, and his records remain a testament to his extraordinary talent and enduring legacy.

Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has redefined modern-day batting in Australia with his remarkable performances. In just 13 matches, Kohli has already scored 1,352 runs at an average of 54.08, including six centuries and four half-centuries. Known for his aggressive yet controlled style, Kohli’s memorable 141 in the second innings at Adelaide in 2014 showcased his determination and fighting spirit. His best performance in Australia was in the 2014 test series where he amassed 692 runs at 86 average with 4 100s in just 4 tests .  His cumulative average in other Australian tours was 38.82 though he got a hundred each in 2011-12 ( Adelaide) & 2018-19 ( Perth) . Kohli rates his 123 at Optus Stadium in Perth in 2018 as one of his finest innings & it was indeed a fine innings on a challenging pitch.His fearless approach, self-confidence, and unyielding resolve have made him a formidable force on Australian soil, inspiring a new generation of cricketers.

VVS Laxman

VVS Laxman, one of India’s most dependable Test players, ranks third among Indian run-scorers in Australia. In 15 matches, Laxman amassed 1,236 runs at an average of 44.14, with four centuries and seven half-centuries to his name. His elegant 167 at Sydney in 2000 against a dominant Australian attack remains one of the finest examples of wristy stroke play and composure under pressure. He was at his  best in 2003-04 when scored over 400 runs in 4 tests in sublime style with 2 big hundreds - 148 in a match rescuing & finally a match winning mission at Adelaide & 178 at Sydney .  Laxman’s consistency and grace in challenging conditions solidify his place as one of India’s greatest middle-order batters.

Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid, famously known as "The Wall," ranks fourth on the list with 1,166 runs in 16 matches at an average of 41.64. Known for his unflinching focus and ability to anchor innings, Dravid played a crucial role in some of India’s most memorable moments in Australia. His 233 at Adelaide in 2003, which paved the way for a rare victory, remains a standout performance. In that tour in 2003-4  Dravid scored over 600 runs in that series .  However he had mediocre returns in other 3 visits.  Dravid’s composure, shot selection, and ability to blunt the Australian bowling attack particularly in the 2003-4 tour highlight his immense contribution to India’s success.

Cheteshwar Pujara

Cheteshwar Pujara, often referred to as the modern-day "Wall," has amassed 993 runs in 11 matches at an average of 47.28, including three centuries and five half-centuries. Renowned for his resilience and solid defence, Pujara has frustrated Australia’s bowlers time and again. During the 2020-21 series, Pujara’s gritty performance, despite enduring repeated blows from Australia’s pacers, proved instrumental in India’s historic series victory. In the previous tour in 2018-19 his 521 runs in the 4 test series paved the way for India's first ever test series win on Australian soil.  His ability to absorb pressure and grind out runs made him an invaluable asset in Test cricket.

Honorable Mention: Sunil Gavaskar

Sunil Gavaskar, India’s "Little Master," deserves special recognition for his stellar record in Australia. In just 11 test  matches, Gavaskar scored 920 runs at an average of 51, including five centuries. His technique and temperament allowed him to succeed against Australia’s fearsome bowling attacks, leaving an indelible mark in the annals of Indian cricket.

These players have not only excelled individually but have also carried the hopes of an entire nation, producing some of the finest batting displays in the history of the India-Australia rivalry.