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Most Test Centuries Against India; Joe Root Tops The All Time List

Kaushik Kashyap

Joe Root after his 12th century vs India. [Source - WasimJaffer14/x.com]Joe Root after his 12th century vs India. [Source - WasimJaffer14/x.com]

Over the years, India has faced some of the greatest batting icons in Test cricket, players who have consistently risen to the challenge and truckload of runs. From timeless legends to modern day maestros, several batters have made a habit of tormenting Indian bowling attacks across generations.

This article looks at the list of those elite names who have scored the most Test centuries against India, showcasing not just their technical brilliance but also their ability to perform under pressure against one of the world’s top teams.

3=. Garry Sobers - 8 Centuries

Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the greatest cricketers in the history of the game, features prominently on this list with eight Test centuries against India. The legendary West Indian all-rounder used to love playing against the Indian team, amassing 1,920 runs at an astonishing average of 83.47 across his career.

His tally of eight centuries was the highest by any player against India during his time and the record stood for more than 50 years. That long-standing record was finally broken in 2022, when Joe Root struck his ninth century against India in Edgbaston at Birmingham.

3=. Vivian Richards - 8 Centuries

Another legendary name on this list is Sir Vivian Richards, who, like Sobers, loved playing against India. During the 1970s and 80s, India and the West Indies faced off frequently in Test cricket, and Richards often rose to the occasion with dominant performances that showcased his flair and fearlessness.

He scored 1,927 runs against India at an impressive average of 50.71, including eight centuries, matching the great Garfield Sobers. Richards consistently brought his best against India, cementing his legacy as one of the most feared batters of his era.

3. Ricky Ponting - 8 Centuries

Ricky Ponting, regarded as one of the finest Test batters of his generation alongside Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar, is another iconic name on this list. The former Australian skipper thrived in pressure situations and had a knack for delivering standout performances whenever he faced India.

In 29 Test matches against India, Ponting scored a remarkable 2,555 runs at an average of 54.36, including eight centuries. His ability to dominate India’s bowling attack across conditions made him one of their toughest opponents in the modern era.

2. Steven Smith - 11 Centuries

Modern-day great Steve Smith also features in this list and currently holds the second position for most Test centuries against India. Renowned for his unorthodox technique and unwavering concentration, Smith has consistently troubled Indian bowlers with his ability to adapt and dominate in all conditions.

With 2,356 runs in just 24 Tests at an average of 58.90, including 11 centuries, his record is nothing short of elite. One of those centuries came in the 2023 WTC Final at The Oval, where he played a key role in Australia’s victory. He followed it up with two more centuries in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, helping Australia reclaim the coveted title after a 10-year wait.

1. Joe Root - 12 Centuries

Joe Root sits comfortably at the top of this elite list with 12 Test centuries against India, the most by any player in history. A master of classical stroke-play and temperament, Root has built a phenomenal record against the subcontinental giants, thriving both at home and in challenging away conditions.

His latest ton in Manchester marked his 12th century against India, capping off what has been a truly remarkable run. Root also holds the record for the most Test runs against India, having scored over 3,000 at an average of nearly 60 and with his form showing no signs of slowing, that tally is still growing.