The Indian cricket team, renowned for its batting strength, has produced legends excelling in Test cricket—the game’s highest format. Scoring runs here defines greatness. India boasts several stalwarts who made huge impacts. Here, we highlight the top six Indian batsmen who reached 2000 Test runs the fastest.
6. Sachin Tendulkar – 44 innings
Sachin Tendulkar matched Gavaskar’s pace by reaching 2000 Test runs in his 44th innings, during a 1994 match against New Zealand in Hamilton. Scoring 43 and 11*, he showed early signs of greatness. Tendulkar went on to become the highest run-scorer in Test cricket, revered globally for his mastery.
5. Sunil Gavaskar – 44 innings
Sunil Gavaskar, one of India’s finest openers, reached the 2000-run milestone in 44 innings. He accomplished it during a Test against the West Indies in Port of Spain. Debuting in 1971, Gavaskar’s impeccable technique and resilience against fierce bowling attacks helped lay the foundation for India’s batting success in Tests.
4. Gautam Gambhir – 43 innings
Gautam Gambhir, India’s gritty left-handed opener, reached 2000 Test runs in 43 innings. He achieved this during a 2009 Test in Napier, New Zealand, where he scored 16 and 136. Known for his composure and technique, Gambhir was instrumental in several Indian Test wins, especially in challenging overseas conditions.
3. Vijay Hazare – 43 innings
Vijay Hazare became the third-fastest Indian to 2000 Test runs, doing so in 43 innings during a 1953 Test against the West Indies at Port of Spain. Despite scoring only 29 runs in that match, Hazare’s classy strokeplay and consistency throughout his career established him as a pioneering Indian batsman.
2. Virender Sehwag – 40 innings
Virender Sehwag, known for his fearless batting, reached the 2000-run mark in just 40 innings. He accomplished the feat in 2004 against Australia in Chennai. Sehwag’s explosive starts and aggressive mindset redefined opening in Tests, making him a nightmare for bowlers and one of India’s most entertaining Test batsmen.
1. Rahul Dravid – 40 innings
