From C.K. Nayudu To Shubman Gill: A Journey Through India's Test Captains

India's Test Captains [Source: AP Photos and @BCCI/X.com]

India’s journey in Test cricket has been nothing short of a fascinating ride. Over the years, many great players have worn the captain’s hat and led the Indian team with pride. From the very first Test in 1932 to the latest captaincy of Shubman Gill, the role of a Test captain has always held great importance, both on and off the field.

Let’s take a closer look at the men who have led India in Test cricket and the legacy they’ve left behind.

Who Was India's First Test Captain?

India’s first-ever Test captain was Cottari Kanakaiya Nayudu, better known as C.K. Nayudu. He led the Indian team in their debut Test match against England at Lord’s in 1932.

C.K. Nayudu wasn’t just a cricketer, he was a true trailblazer. Known for his fearless batting and ability to smash sixes out of the ground, he quickly became a fan favorite. His cricket career lasted an incredible 47 years, and in 1956, he became the first cricketer to receive the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s top civilian honours.

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India’s First Captain After Independence

After India gained independence in 1947, the country entered a new chapter and so did Indian cricket.

The man who took charge during this time was Lala Amarnath. He led the Indian team during their tour to Australia in 1947-48. But more importantly, under his captaincy, India won their first-ever Test series, defeating Pakistan 2–1 in 1952.

Lala Amarnath was not just a cricketer, but also a unifying figure during a time of deep division in the subcontinent. His leadership helped bring Indian cricket to life in the newly independent nation.

Here’s a list of all players who have captained India in at least one Test match, from 1932 to 2025:

India’s Most Successful Test Captain

While many captains have contributed to Indian cricket, Virat Kohli stands out as the most successful Test captain, with 40 wins under his belt. His aggressive leadership style and focus on fitness brought a new energy to the team, especially in overseas conditions.

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