Amid the Virat Kohli versus BCCI rift, ex-India selector Kirti Azad recalled how he had defended then-captain Sourav Ganguly when Greg Chappell was the coach. Azad reckoned Ganguly could've managed the episode in a better manner. The ex-India World Cup-winner also feels that the BCCI chief should have learned from his own experience when dealing with the situation.
"I remember I had defended him when Greg Chappell was the coach and he was dropped as captain. He should have learned from his example and spoken to Virat much earlier. I am not saying Virat is a special case. Yes, he is a special batter and a special cricketer. He leads by example and leads by example."
Ex-BCCI selector Kirti Azad said to News18
Azad also recalled how Bishan Singh Bedi and Sunil Gavaskar were dethroned. However, he felt at least Ganguly could have let Kohli know about the change in captaincy well in advance.
He added: "I remember how Bishan Bedi was dethroned, how Sunil Gavaskar was dethroned. Venkataraghavan was in his flight and when he landed, he was replaced as captain. At least, Sourav should have realized through his own experience."
Eyes would be on Virat Kohli and he would be feeling the pressure of all the noise that is happening in and around him. He would look to get among the runs and help the side win.
Meanwhile, the Indian team is looking to win its maiden Test series against the Proteas after showcasing excellent performances against Australia and England in the last 12 months.
India are the current Asia Cup champions. Image | BCCI on X
The 2025 Asia Cup faces significant uncertainty as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has threatened toboycott any resolutions if the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Annual General Meeting (AGM) proceeds in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
The meeting, scheduled for July 24, has become a flashpoint amid heightened political tensions between India and Bangladesh, prompting the BCCI to refuse to attend if the venue is not changed from Dhaka.
ACC does not want to change the venue
According to multiple reports, including ANI and India Today, the BCCI has formally communicated its stance to both the ACC and its chairman, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi, requesting a change of venue.
However, these requests have gone unanswered, with Naqvi reportedly adamant on holding the meeting in Dhaka, a move seen by India as exerting undue pressure to influence Asia Cup-related decisions.
Siraj took 6 wickets in the Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka. Image | BCCI on X
India threatens to withdraw from the Asia Cup 2025
India, the defending champions and host of the upcoming six-nation T20 Asia Cup, likely scheduled for September, is not alone in its boycott.
Cricket boards from Sri Lanka, Oman, and Afghanistan have also expressed reservations about attending the meeting in Bangladesh, raising questions about the ACC's ability to make valid decisions without key members present.
Compounding the tension is the recent postponement of India's white-ball tour of Bangladesh from August 2025 to September 2026, underscoring the diplomatic strain. India refused to play in Pakistan during the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, with matches relocated to neutral venues like Sri Lanka and Dubai, respectively. The Men in Blue went on to win both tournaments.
There have been speculative reports that BCCI might withdraw from both the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and the Men’s Asia Cup, but BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has denied these claims, calling them "speculative and imaginary".
Explore the elite list of most test centuries in cricket history, led by Sachin Tendulkar. See how Joe Root is rapidly climbing to challenge the records set by legends like Ponting and others.
The battle of supremacy in Test centuries has come a long way in cricket history. Some early established test records, defined by batting greatness, are nearly impossible to imagine being surpassed. The record for most test centuries in cricket history is one of them.
This prestigious list consists of legendary batters around the globe who have shaped the golden era of test cricket with their run-scoring consistency and centuries.
Discover the complete list of players with the most test centuries in cricket history and embrace their legacies.
Most Test Centuries in Cricket History
1. Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 51 centuries
Sachin Tendulkar celebrates his 30th Test century in 2002. Image | ESPNcricinfo
The 'Little Master' Sachin Tendulkar stands right at the top with 51 test centuries in his career, spanning from 1989 to 2013. His career was a saga of brilliance against every bowling attack in every condition.
From being the youngest Indian to score a Test century at the age of 17 years and 109 days in 1990, to ending up having the most test centuries in cricket history, Tendulkar has achieved it all!
He has consistently scored tons, becoming the first and only player to ever cross the fifty-mark in test centuries. These numbers let us believe that maybe some records can never be broken.
Jacques Kallis celebrates his 40th test century in 2011. Image | Mint
The legendary all-rounder, Jacques Kallis, graced the longest format from 1995 to 2013, amassing 45 test centuries. He is the only South African to feature at the top of this list and to have scored more than 30 test centuries.
Apart from personal milestones, his hundreds were often foundational blocks for South Africa's innings in the game. He provided the key balance the team needed, contributing to secure a win or draw.
3. Ricky Ponting (AUS) | 41 centuries
Ricky Ponting celebrates his 40th test century against India in 2012. Image | Pinterest
Ricky Ponting, the former Australian captain, led Australia through a golden era, scoring 41 centuries between 1995 to 2012. Known for his aggressive yet classy style, he thrived especially in big matches, putting the opposition under pressure.
One of the memorable moments in his century collection is the twin centuries during his 100th test match against South Africa in Sydney. This came in 2006, where Ponting scored back-to-back 120 and 142* in two innings.
He is the 3rd batter to go 40+ in the list of most test centuries in cricket history.
Kumar Sangakkara celebrates his first century at the Lord's Cricket Ground in 2014. Image | Sky Sports
The Sri Lankan batting maestro, Kumar Sangakkara, is a perfect example of elegance and power blended together. His ability to score big placed him in the top 5 of most test centuries in cricket history.
Sangakkara scored 38 test centuries from 2000 to 2015. One of his defining moments in his career was his 287 runs against South Africa in 2006. This knock was a part of the record-breaking partnership of 624 runs with his teammate, Mahela Jayawardene.
5. Joe Root (ENG) | 37 centuries
Joe Root celebrates his 37th test century against India in 2025. Image | X
England's highest scorer in tests, Joe Root, has scored 37 test centuries so far, with his flourishing career still ongoing. He has scored the most number of hundreds for his nation and is just one century away from equaling Sangakkara's record.
He reached his 37th test century in 2025 against India, during the 3rd test of their series. Root is currently the World's No. 2 in the ICC Test batter rankings, and the only player in the top 5 of this list who has not yet retired.
Root's fiery form is a clear indication of him soaring higher in all charts of test cricket records, setting the standards for generations to come.
Here's the tabular breakdown of the Top 20 players having the most test centuries in cricket history, featuring 6 players from Australia, 4 from India, and several other cricketing nations.
Joe Root scored his 37th Test Century on the second day of the third Test between England and India at Lord’s. He is now the batsman with the most test centuries for England.
The Nation England has produced some extraordinary Batsmen in Cricket. They have impressed Cricket fans from all over the world with their achievements and glory. The test is considered the Best Format in Cricket. England has & had some players who are the best among many in the world of Test Cricket. Sir Jack Hobbs is considered the Best Test Batsman for England in Tests. He has scored 5410 runs in just 102 innings with 15 centuries and 28 half-centuries.
In recent times of greats, Joe Root has proven himself one of the greatest if not the greatest for England in Test Format as he has every right due to his achievements. Now, Let's give a look at the list of the Top 5 Batsmen with the most test centuries for England.
Top 5 Batsmen with the Most Test Centuries for England:
1. Joe Root | 37 Centuries
England batter Joe Root has written his name in the history books for England in Test Format by bringing up his 37th Test hundred on the second day of the third Test between England and India at Lord’s. It was also his third consecutive Test century at the venue. Moreover, he also overtook Graham Gooch as the highest run-scorer at Lord's in international cricket.
Root made his debut in 2012 against team India and since then he has played 156* test matches. He has scored 13,219 runs with an average of 50.84.
2. Alastair Cook | 33 Centuries
Image - ICC
Alastair Cook was one of the greats in Test Cricket of his generation. He made his debut against India in 2006 for the national team in Test Cricket. Cook played 161 Test matches in which he batted 291 innings. He scored 12,472 runs with an average of 45.35. His highest score was 294 and he made 33 centuries and 57 half-centuries for his team. Cook played his last Test Match against India in 2018.
Kevin Pietersen has proved himself across every format for England. He made his Test debut in 2005 against the Australian side at Lords. Pietersen played 104 test matches, in which he scored 8181 runs with an average of 47.29. He played his last test match against Australia in 2014. Kevin Pietersen is third on the list with 23 Centuries.
The judgment of cricket history is that the greatest batsmen the game has known are - WG Grace, Jack Hobbs, Walter Hammond, and Don Bradman. Others may come close indeed to those four but do not quite take place with them. Hammond made his test debut against South Africa in 1927. He played 85 test matches and scored 7249 runs with an average of 58.45. He is 4th on the list with 22 test centuries. The Great Walter Hammond played his last Test match against New Zealand in 1947.
Colin Cowdrey mostly known as Michael Cowdrey played Cricket for 21 years, One of the most durable batsmen in the history of Test Cricket. Cowdrey made his test debut in 1954 against the Aussies and played 114 matches, scoring 7624 runs with an average of 44.06. He is 5th on the list with the same no as Wally Hammond, 22 centuries. Michael Cowdrey played his last test match in 1975 against the Australian side.
Top 10 Players with the Most Centuries in Test Cricket for England:
From Vengsarkar to Dravid, discover the most test runs scored by Indian batters at Lord's. Get a comprehensive look at India's performances and history at the iconic venue.
The Lord's Cricket Ground, with its iconic pavilion an rich history, has witnessed countless thrilling battles. For Indian batters, playing at this venue has been both challenging and rewarding.
We are about to take a look at the list of most test runs scored by Indian batters at Lord's. It took immense patience, dedication, and skill to face best bowlers around the world and score consistently.
Get ready to find how some legacies are unmatched till date.
1. Dilip Vengsarkar | 508 runs
Dilip Vengsarkar batting against England at the Lord's in 1986. Image | ESPNcricinfo
Dilip Vengsarkar stands at the top with 508 runs in 8 innings. It's been 35 years since his last appearance at Lord's, yet no Indian batter could come close to his remarkable numbers.
He was known for his elegant style and solid technique, which suited the English conditions. His 157 runs knock in the 1982 test was a monumental effort, which showed a glimpse of potential against a strong bowling attack.
Despite not being his highest, the unbeaten 126 against England in the 1986 Lord's test was the most memorable knock. It contributed to India's first-ever victory at the venue and broke a years-long curse.
Rahul Dravid celebrates his century at Lord's in 2011 England tour. Image | ESPNcricinfo
The 'Wall' of test cricket, Rahul Dravid, holds the 2nd spot with 354 runs in 7 innings. He specialised in soaking up pressure and batting for longer periods with e disciplined approach.
He scored two half-centuries and an unbeaten 103* in the drawn test of 2011. Having multiple test batting records to his name, Dravid proves his enduring class by making it to the top in here as well.
Dravid stats at Lord's:
Span
Matches
Innings
Runs
HS
Avg
100
50
1996-2011
4
7
354
103*
59.00
1
2
3. Sunil Gavaskar | 340 runs
Sunil Gavaskar playing at the Lord's. Image | X
One of India's greatest openers, Sunil Gavaskar, amassed 340 runs across 10 innings to earn his deserved spot in the top 3. He consistently helped the team to have a good start, laying the foundation of big totals.
While Gavaskar didn't register a century at Lord's, his highest score of 59 runs, made in 1979, was part of a solid partnership for India's chase in a high-scoring draw.
Vinoo Mankad playing at Lord's against England. Image | TOI
Vinoo Mankad, a brilliant all-rounder, features impressively high on this list despite playing only 4 innings. He scored 333 runs and also holds the record for highest individual score by an Indian batter at Lord's, for his 184 runs in 1952.
Mankad's limited appearances at this venue were nothing short of legendary. He also equally contributed with the ball, displaying commendable all-around efforts.
Mankad stats at Lord's:
Span
Matches
Innings
Runs
HS
Avg
100
50
1946-1952
2
4
333
184
83.25
1
2
5. Gundappa Viswanath | 272 runs
Gundappa Viswanath in action during a test match. Image | BBC
Known for wristy elegance, Gundappa Viswanath holds the 5th spot on this list for most test runs scored by Indian batters at Lord's. He scored 272 runs in 8 innings with his unique style.
Viswanath's century of 113 in the 1979 Test against England was a masterclass. It was a significant innings, particularly as it came in a match where India were chasing a massive target and ultimately secured a famous draw.
ENG vs IND Test at Lord's: Every result from India vs England test at Lord's
The historic battles fought at the 'Home of Cricket' are always special when it comes to ENG vs IND test at Lord's. See how this iconic rivalry unfolded as we bring you every result from India vs England test at Lord's.
The rivalry between England and India in Test cricket at Lord's is not just a series of matches; it's a chapter of cricketing history. From India's first Test match at Lord's in 1932 to their more recent historic victories, each game has contributed a new and evolved Indian side.
While England has historically held the upper hand at Lord's, the battles have been extremely thrilling and hard-fought. Get ready to delve into every result from India vs England test at Lord's.
ENG vs IND Test at Lord's: Who holds the edge?
Ben Stokes and Shubman Gill shaking hands at the beginning of 5-test series in June 2025. Image | Rediff
India has played 19 test matches against England at the iconic Lord's, spanning from 1932 to 2021.
India celebrates the fall of last wicket in the 2021 Lord's test. Image | BBC
Let's take a look at the detailed summary of the games played by different eras of both teams.
1932-1967: England dominated the early stages
The Indian team, led by C.K. Nayudu, faced a loss by 158 runs in their first match at Lord's against England. The English captain, Douglas Jardine, played a key role in securing this one, along with good team efforts.
Following the 1932 defeat, India lost 5 consecutive matches in the years: 1936, 1946, 1952, 1952, 1959, and 1957. They lacked consistency as a team and were unable to make things right again.
On the other hand, England dominantly made their mark at the iconic venue, winning matches by huge margins.
After being defeated multiple times, and England acquiring the undefeatable title, India finally saw a ray of hope in 1971. This was the first time a match was drawn in the 39 years of defeats faced by India at Lord's.
Ajit Wadekar was captaining the Indian side during the tour, and he was also the highest-scoring batsman in the first innings. Bowlers like Srinivas Venkataraghavan, Bishan Singh Bedi, and Bhagwat Chandrasekhar brilliantly tackled the English line-up to secure this much-needed draw.
1974-1982: India's struggle to get a hold of momentum
After the draw in 1971, England shattered all the hopes of Indian fans with a huge victory in 1974. Batting first, ENG set a massive total of 629 runs, with the help of 3 centurions and 96 runs from John Edrich.
They bowled out India for 302 and 42 in the first and second innings (respectively) and sealed the win by an innings and 258 runs.
The year 1979 saw another draw between both teams. India's star player, Dilip Vengsarkar, smashed a century which saved India from the face of another defeat and also earned him the POTM title.
However, England kept coming back stronger after the drawn matches. Despite great efforts from Kapil Dev, who scored 41 & 89 runs in the match, and picked 8 wickets overall, India could not save the match in 1982.
1986: India's first historic win against England at Lord's
Fans rushing to congratulate Vengsarkar on his century. Image | Hindustan Times
India finally broke off their streak of defeat against England at Lord's in 1986, with their 5-wicket victory. Under the captaincy of Kapil Dev, India showcased a passionate gameplay and their desire to win. It was the first time in decades that they seemed to play as a team with extraordinary efforts.
A hundred from Vengsarkar, a half-century from Mohinder Amarnath, along wicket-taking spells of Chetan Sharma and the skipper were some vital performances that made a huge difference in the end.
1990-2011: England gains the upper hand once again
Between 1990 and 2011, England consistently avoided defeat against India. In the 5 matches played during this period, they secured 3 wins and 2 draws, ensuring India did not record a single victory.
2014: India shines for the second time
Ishant Sharma during his match-winning 7-wicket haul for India in 2014 Lord's test. Image | X
In 2014, India achieved a 95-run victory over England at Lord's, marking their second win in the history of test rivalry against England at this venue. Led by MS Dhoni, the modern Indian side put up a compelling fight against the English giants.
Key performances included Ajinkya Rahane's 103 in the first innings (India 295, England 319), Murali Vijay's 95 in India's second innings (India 342), and Ishant Sharma's match-winning 7/74 that bowled England out for 223, clinching the win.
England celebrates their victory over India in 2018. Image | Facebook
The 2018 Lord's test between India and England was a one-sided affair. After the rain-affected first day, India collapsed for just 107 in their first innings, largely due to James Anderson's 5/20.
England then posted a commanding 396/7 declared, with Chris Woakes scoring an unbeaten 137. In their second innings, Anderson continued his wicket-taking spells, picking up another 4. As a result, the struggling Indian side was bowled out for 130.
England secured a decisive victory by an innings and 159 runs.
2021: India's heroic comeback
Siraj celebrating a wicket that helped India conquer Lord's. Image | Cricfit
The 2021 Lord's Test marked a historic triumph for India, under the phenomenal leadership of Virat Kohli. Hispassion and consistently backing his team up proved to be vital in turning the tide of a match that seemed to be slipping away.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions. India's first innings saw a brilliant partnership between Rohit Sharma (scored 83 runs) and KL Rahul (scored 129 runs) that helped them reach a total of 364 runs.
After England took a first-innings lead of 27 runs, India soared higher in the second innings, declaring at 298/8. The final day witnessed an extraordinary display of Indian fast bowling.
After a fiery spell from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, it was Mohammed Siraj, whose precise line and length ripped through England's batting line-up.
England were bowled out for just 120, handing India a memorable 151-run victory. With this victory, Kohli became the third Indian captain to achieve a Test win against England at Lord's, following the footsteps of Kapil Dev (1986) and MS Dhoni (2014).
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