Over the years, Indian cricket has seen some legendary batsmen who have left an indelible mark in Test cricket. These players not only scored heavily but also shaped India's success on the world stage with their consistent performances. Here's a look at the seven Indian batsmen who have scored the most runs in Test cricket for the country.
Regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, Sachin Tendulkar's name is synonymous with records. In a career spanning 24 years, Tendulkar amassed an incredible 15,921 runs in 200 matches at an average of 53.78, including 51 centuries and 68 fifties. His highest score of 248 came against Bangladesh in 2004.
Known as "The Wall" for his exceptional technique and resilience, Rahul Dravid stands second on this list with 13,265 runs in 163 Test matches at an average of 52.63. His highest score of 270 came against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in 2004, and his 36 centuries and 63 half-centuries speak to his longevity and consistency.
A pioneer of Indian batting, Sunil Gavaskar was the first player to reach 10,000 runs in Test cricket. In his 125 matches, Gavaskar scored 10,122 runs at an average of 51.12, including 34 centuries and 45 fifties. His highest Test score of 236 came against the West Indies in Chennai.
Modern-day batting sensation Virat Kohli is the fourth on the list with 9,017 runs (and counting) in 116 Test matches. His career average of 48.74 and 29 centuries demonstrate his dominance in all formats of the game. Kohli's highest score of 254 came against South Africa in Pune in 2019.
Known for his elegance and ability to deliver under pressure, VVS Laxman scored 8,781 runs in 134 Test matches at an average of 45.97. His highest score of 281, which came against Australia in the famous Kolkata Test in 2001, is considered one of the greatest innings in cricket history.
A true game-changer, Virender Sehwag redefined Test opening with his aggressive approach. Sehwag accumulated 8,503 runs in 103 matches at an astonishing strike rate of 82.18 something rarely seen in Test cricket. His highest score of 319, which came against South Africa, is one of the two triple centuries he has to his name.
Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly played a pivotal role in transforming Indian cricket. Ganguly scored 7,212 runs in 113 Test matches at an average of 42.17, with 16 centuries and 35 half-centuries. His highest score of 239 came against Pakistan in Bangalore.