3 Indian cricketers who have played 100+ test matches but not a single World Cup

13 cricketers have played more than 100 test matches for India.

In the palpitating realm of Indian cricket, where the stage is often illuminated by ODI World Cup heroes, a trio of remarkable players stand in the shadows. VVS Laxman, Ishant Sharma, and Cheteshwar Pujara – names etched in the annals of test cricket history have never graced the grandeur of the ODI World Cup. Their feats in test matches have become legendary, from Laxman’s mesmerizing elegance to Sharma’s fiery spells and Pujara’s impregnable defense. As we delve into the stories of these unsung heroes, we uncover the unique journeys that have made them indomitable in the Test arena, despite the world cup glory eluding them.

Here are the three Indian cricketers who have never been a part of Cricket World Cup:

1. VVS Laxman:

From 1996 to 2012, VVS Laxman painted masterpieces on cricket fields for team India. His Test career, comprising 134 matches, saw him amass a glorious 8781 runs at an average of 45.97, including 17 centuries. Those elegant wristy flicks and majestic cover drives etched unforgettable memories. However, the ODI stage showcased a different Laxman: 86 matches, 2338 runs, and an average of 30.76. Despite this, the grandeur of the ODI World Cup remained elusive.

Actively playing ODIs while excelling in Tests, Laxman’s exclusion from world cup squads is a historical quirk, leaving fans pondering what could have been. The man who orchestrated incredible match-turning test innings never had the chance to do the same on cricket’s grandest ODI platform.

2. Ishant Sharma: 

Ishant Sharma’s test exploits from 2007 to 2021 showcased relentless determination. 105 Test matches bore witness to his fiery spells, 311 wickets, and an average of 32.40. He became synonymous with the historic Lord’s spell and his battle against the formidable Ricky Ponting, a rivalry etched in cricketing folklore.

In the ODI realm, Ishant donned the Indian jersey 80 times, taking 115 wickets at an average of 30.98. Remarkably, he played ODIs while simultaneously being an essential test asset. Yet, the ODI World Cup spotlight remained elusive. Ishant’s journey represents a testament to his multifaceted skills and unwavering commitment to the game.

3. Cheteshwar Pujara:

Cheteshwar Pujara, the embodiment of classical Indian test batsmanship, stepped onto the international stage in 2010. 103 tests later, he’s amassed 7195 runs at an average of 43.60, with 19 centuries. His pivotal role in the 2020–21 Australia series victory showcased his resilience, steadiness, and ability to grind out crucial runs when the team needed them the most.

Though the ODI journey remains limited, Pujara’s impact on test cricket speaks volumes. His 5 ODI matches and 51 runs at an average of 10.20 might not mirror his test brilliance, but his influence in the longest format is undeniable.

As the cricketing world revels in the glory of ODI World Cups, it’s paramount to celebrate those who devoted their cricketing careers to the test arena. VVS Laxman, Ishant Sharma, and Cheteshwar Pujara these names echo the resonance of dedication and passion for the five-day format. While the ODI World Cup remains an unfulfilled aspiration for these unsung heroes, their legacy shines bright. Laxman’s delicate strokes, Ishant’s fiery spells, and Pujara’s unyielding resolve paint a canvas of test cricket mastery that shall forever grace the annals of Indian cricket history.

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