Royal Challengers Bangalore and Chennai Super Kings will fight for the final IPL 2024 playoffs spot on Saturday at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. CSK are 4th in the points table with 14 points from 13 matches while RCB are seventh with 12 points in as many outings. It could also be the last time that the fans will witness two greats of Indian cricket, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli facing off on the IPL stage. So, it is going to be an intense and emotional ride at the same time.
"Mahi bhai and I will be playing again, maybe for the last time, who knows. It'll be a great moment for fans, we had a great partnership for India over the years. We all know how many matches he's finished and won the match for the team," Kohli said on Jio Cinema's Inside Out show.
There is no guarantee over Dhoni's Indian Premier League future over the past few seasons as injuries have limited his participation in the tournament. However, the 42-year-old continues to amaze the fans with his presence on the field. He also led CSK to the IPL title last year. After CSK's final home game of this season, Dhoni and the rest of the players did a lap of honour to thank the fans for their support, with the possibility that this might be the last time the defending champions play on their turf this season.
RCB vs CSK: Whoever wins, will qualify for the Playoffs
MSD and Virat set to face off for maybe the last time | Image: AFP/Getty
If CSK manages to win the RCB vs CSK clash at Bengaluru, then they will qualify for the playoffs or even if the rain washes out the match, they will qualify then too. CSK have been inconsistent this whole season but they have managed to register victories against their biggest rivals like MI, KKR, RR, and RCB. CSK and RCB started the season on Chepauk, facing each other and they will play their final league game of the season by also doing the same but this time in RCB's home.
Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore made a remarkable comeback with five straight wins after ending a six-game losing streak to stay alive in the playoff race. Virat Kohli has been the key player in RCB's sudden rise. He is still the highest run scorer in the 2024 IPL, with 661 runs at a strike rate of 155.16 from 13 matches. Another player is Cameron Green, who has stepped up for his side at a very crucial time of the season. Skipper Faf du Plessis also must take responsibility against his ex-franchise on Saturday.
Discover the players with most sixes for India in tests. Explore how Rishabh Pant surpassed Dhoni's record and recently equaled Rohit Sharma. Can he claim the top spot? Find out.
Indian batters have showcased an impressive six-hitting record in the history of test cricket, etching their names among the big hitters around the world. It represents not just power, but a fearless approach in the longest format.
Some of India's most celebrated cricketers have taken this record for most sixes in tests to another level, having smashed an unparalleled number of sixes. Focusing on the current standings, Rishabh Pant is the one name growing rapidly to the top, surpassing Dhoni's record.
Find out who hit the most sixes for India in tests, and how close Pant is to claiming the top spot.
Virender Sehwag hitting a six for India in a test match. Image | ESPNcricinfo
The former Indian cricketer, Virender Sehwag, has hit the most sixes for India in tests. His six-hitting approach was defined by a dominant mindset, where he would take on a bowler in the very first over if he wanted.
Sehwag smashed 90 sixes for India in test format, spanning from 2001 to 2013. This came across 103 test matches (178 innings) and has been unmatched over a decade.
2. Rishabh Pant | 88 sixes
Rishabh Pant hitting his iconic one-handed sixes for India in a test match. Image | NDTV
Rishabh Pant has rapidly climbed up in the elite list of six-hitters, recently levelling up Rohit Sharma's numbers with 88 sixes in tests. He also became the player with most sixes (36 sixes) against England in tests, surpassing Viv Richards' record.
Pant's immense power and confidence in the format is really exciting to watch. He is only 3 big hitsaway from surpassing Sehwag and becoming the player with most sixes for India in tests.
He reached to this spot in just 46 matches (80 innings), which shows how he is capable of taking this record to the highest level with his one-handed flicks, aggressive sweeps, and powerful pulls.
Rohit Sharma smashing a six for India in test. Image | X
Rohit Sharma put an end to his test career with an astounding 88 sixes for India in 67 matches (116 innings). From his test debut as a middle-order batsman to transitioning into one of the best test openers for India, he kept his big-hitting prowess alive throughout.
Sharma's ability to read lengths early and deliver the ball effortlessly to the stands was phenomenal. Given that he holds the record for the most international sixes across all formats, his position within his nation's top 5 in Test cricket is certainly not a surprise.
MS Dhoni hitting a flat six ina a test match for India. Image | TOI
MS Dhoni holds the 4th spot for most sixes for India in tests, having 78 sixes across 90 matches (144 innings). Renowned for his "helicopter shot," which delivered the ball soaring over long-on or mid-wicket, his strength lay in his powerful forearms and lower body.
Dhoni often converted decent deliveries into maximums, in order to shift the pressure at crucial times for India.
5. Ravindra Jadeja | 73 sixes
Ravindra Jadeja going big against England in a test match. Image | Facebook
Being the only all-rounder in the list of most sixes for India in tests, Ravindra Jadeja, with 73 sixes to his name, needs to be given the appreciation he truly deserves. He achieved those numbers in only 83 matches (123 innings).
Jadeja is the second player, after Pant, to have an ongoing test career among the Top 5, which indicates his potential to surpass Dhoni's record. Considering his current pace, the day he breaks records and climbs higher on the list doesn't seem far off.
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:
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).
Explore the legacies of successful captains who carried the leadership role for India brilliantly. Ranking all Indian captains in ICC events for a better understanding of their journeys. Check them out.
Everyone has an opinion on who the best Indian captain is, especially when it comes to ICC tournaments. The leadership role has been carried forward by many legendary cricketers who gave us moments to cherish forever. They carried the hopes of the nation in events like World Cup and Champions Trophy.
Keeping aside the biasness and individual preferences, it is now time to look at the numbers and check facts. Who truly performed best when it mattered most and led the team to history wins?
Here we are, ranking all Indian captains in ICC events to give you a clear picture.
1. MS Dhoni (2007-2017) | 3 ICC Trophies
MS Dhoni carrying 3 ICC Trophies won as the captain of India. Image | TOI
ICC T20 World Cup: 2007
ICC Cricket World Cup: 2011
ICC Champions Trophy: 2013
MS Dhoni is the most successful Indian captain, who led them to win all the 3 major ICC titles during his tenure. From using his tactical brilliance under pressure to stepping up when the team needed him the most, this man has done it all!
The begining of Dhoni's captaincy era occured with a historic win in the inaugural season of T20 World Cup in 2007, where he stepped into the leadership role for the first time. And guess what, there was no looking back from that point.
Under his captaincy, India brought the ODI World Cup home after 28 long years in 2011, defeating Sri Lanka in a sensational final. He went on to win the 3rd trophy to fill his shining cabinet, with the 2013 Champions Trophy win.
Dhoni's time as the captain was a remarkable journey, filled with joyous wins and celebrations. He truly proved there is only one 'Captain Cool,' and shall forever be!
Rohit Sharma poses with 2 ICC silverwares won as the Indian captain. Image | X
ICC T20 World Cup: 2024
ICC Champions Trophy: 2025
Rohit Sharma, with his incredible captaincy skills, not only joined this elite list, but also climbed to the top in a very short period. He took over the charge in 2022 and started moving forward at a good pace.
In 2023, Rohit led India to the World Test Championship Final, as well as the ODI World Cup Final, but the results didn't go in their favour. However, the team bounced back the following year and won the T20 World Cup after dominating throughout the tournament.
India got back-to-back reasons to celebrate, as the team brought the 2025 Champions Trophy home as well! With this feat, Rohit became the first and the only captain to lead a team to all ICC tournament finals.
Rohit announced his retirement from T20Is (in 2024, after the WC win) and Test cricket (in 2025). He will continue to lead India in the ODI format, with his eyes fixated on the 2027 World Cup.
Sharma's captain stats in ICC events:
Span
Matches
Won
Lost
Win%
2022-present
54
39
12
72.22%
3. Kapil Dev (1982-1987) | 1 ICC Trophy
Kapil Dev lifting the World Cup in 1983. Image | India TV News
ICC Cricket World Cup: 1983
Kapil Dev is the first World Cup winning captain for India, who lifted the trophy at the iconic Lord's, after a phenomenal victory over West Indies in 1983. At just 24 years of age, he became the youngest captain to win the WC for any team.
Although his captaincy stint was relatively short, but it was a time to remember as Indian cricket team saw a rise competing at the grandest stage. Dev led the nation to their first-ever ICC trophy, which is truly unforgettable.
Sourav Ganguly sharing the 2002 Champions Trophy with the Sri Lankan captain Sanath Jayasuriya. Image | Facebook
ICC Champions Trophy: 2002
Sourav Ganguly's captaincy is widely regarded as a transformational period for Indian Cricket. He took over the team during a difficult period and instilled new sense of belief and competitiveness.
As the captain, he led India to reach the final of 2003 World Cup and 2000 Champions Trophy. The heroic moment arrived in 2002 Champions Trophy, when India performed excellently throughout and reached the finals to meet the host Sri Lanka.
The final match was washed out in Colombo, which led to the declaration of joint winners. However, this title marked India's first in the Champions Trophy, led elegantly by Ganguly.
Virat Kohli during his captaincy stint for India. Image | CNN
ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup: 2008
While Virat Kohli may not have secured a major ICC trophy as the senior Indian team captain, his leadership journey includes a significant triumph: captaining the U-19 team to a World Cup victory.
So, when the discussion is about greatest Indian captains, this legendary player shall always get a mention. He is one of those players who redefined Indian cricket.
His record as India's most successful Test captain, with an impressive 40 wins, solidifies his standing as one of the game's absolute best, consistently boosting team spirits and driving high standards.
Some things cannot be just measured by trophies, and King Kohli's tale is one of those that the future generations will hear and admire.