Celebrating the Finest Test Innings: India’s Top 5 Batting Performances Against England
India is set to face England in a thrilling five-match Test series commencing June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. This series marks the start of the 2025–27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. As anticipation builds for this marquee clash, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on some of the most memorable batting performances by Indian players in England during the 21st century.
Rahul Dravid’s Unyielding Spirit at The Oval
In 2011, India had a disappointing tour of England, culminating in a 4-0 series defeat. However, one standout performance came from Rahul Dravid, affectionately known as ‘The Wall.’ Dravid scored an impressive unbeaten 146 runs at The Oval, showcasing his resilience and determination. He faced 266 balls, hitting 20 boundaries, and remained not out until the end of the innings. Despite India’s overall struggles, his knock was a testament to his class and tenacity, even as the team lost by an innings. Dravid’s performance was a bright spot in an otherwise challenging series, reminding fans of his exceptional skill and fighting spirit.
Rohit Sharma’s Game-Changing Century
Fast forward to 2021, and Rohit Sharma delivered a remarkable performance at The Oval during the fourth Test. Scoring 127 runs, Rohit silenced critics questioning his overseas capabilities. His innings was marked by patience and skill, coming at a time when India trailed by 99 runs. He batted for 256 balls, hitting 14 fours and one six, playing a pivotal role in turning the match in India’s favor. Ultimately, India won the match by 157 runs, and the series ended in a 2-2 draw. Rohit’s century is remembered as one of his finest Test innings, solidifying his place in Indian cricket history.
KL Rahul’s Classic Knock at Lord’s
Another highlight came in 2021, when KL Rahul dazzled fans with a century at the iconic Lord’s. In the second Test, he scored 129 runs, forming a crucial opening partnership with Rohit Sharma that yielded 123 runs. His innings spanned 250 balls and included 12 fours and one six. Thanks to Rahul’s stellar performance, India posted a total of 364 runs in their first innings and secured a 151-run victory. Scoring a century at Lord’s is always a significant achievement, and Rahul did so with style and composure.
Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane’s Iconic Contributions
In the 2018 series, Virat Kohli made headlines with his outstanding 149 runs at Edgbaston. Coming in at a precarious 54/2, he faced England’s formidable bowlers, showcasing his leadership and skill by hitting 22 boundaries and a six. Although India lost the match by a narrow 31 runs, Kohli’s performance was a defining moment, countering criticisms about his ability on English soil. Meanwhile, in the 2014 series, Ajinkya Rahane played a crucial role by scoring 103 runs at Lord’s. His innings helped India secure a memorable victory by 95 runs, marking it as one of India’s most celebrated wins abroad. As the upcoming series looms, these legendary performances serve as a reminder of the caliber of Indian talent on English wickets.
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