Top 5 Australian bowlers with most wickets against India in test cricket

Only one Australian bowler has taken more than 100 wickets against India in test cricket.

India and Australia stand as two of the greatest cricketing nations in the sporting history. Both countries have dominated the test arena in the 21st century winning the ICC Test Mace 13 times between 2003 and 2009.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) was started in 1996, but this rivalry dates back to 1947 when the Indian team toured Australia for the five-match test series.

What makes this rivalry special is the contrasting playing conditions in both countries. Indian pitches are offer turn, and are slow and low in nature, while the Australian surfaces assist seamers with pace and extra bounce. Over the years, the Australian bowlers have played a crucial role in Australia’s success against India.

On that note, let’s look at the top five Australian bowlers with most test wickets against India.

Top five Australian bowlers with most wickets against India in test cricket:

5. Glenn McGrath – 51 wickets

Known for his impeccable line and length, Glenn McGrath stands as Australia’s most successful test fast bowler with 563 wickets to his name.

McGrath boasts an impressive record against India: 51 wickets in 11 tests at a bowling average of just 18 with two five-fors and one ten-wicket match haul.

McGrath’s most memorable performance against India came in the 2000 Sydney test, where he tore through the Indian batting lineup, claiming bowling figures of 5/48 to help Australia seal a win by an innings and 141 runs.

4. Josh Hazlewood – 51 wickets

Following McGrath on the list is a pacer with similar bowling characteristics as McGrath: Josh Hazlewood. Hazlewood is known for his immense bowling discipline.

Hazlewood has taken 51 wickets in 28 innings at a bowling average of 26 against India so far in his test career with four five-fors.

His most remarkable performance against India came in Adelaide in 2020 where he took 5/8, bundling out the Asian giants for 36 runs in the second innings.

3. Richie Benaud – 52 wickets

Legendary commentator Richie Benaud is regarded as one of the greatest Australian spinners of the 20th century. Benaud has an excellent record against India – 52 wickets in 16 tests at a remarkable average of 18.38. Benuaud’s impressive numbers against India include five test fifers.

Benaud’s legacy extends beyond his playing career, as he is remembered as one of the finest commentators.

2. Brett Lee – 53 wickets

Nicknamed “Binga,” Brett Lee is among the fastest pacers to have played this game. Lee claimed 53 wickets against India at a bowling average of 31 in 12 tests, including two five-fors.

Lee’s best performance against India came at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 1999, where he took 5/47 in the first innings to help Australia secure a dominant 180-run victory.

1. Nathan Lyon – 121 wickets

Nicknamed Australia’s off-spin “GOAT,” Nathan Lyon holds the record for the most wickets for Australia against India in test cricket. Lyon has taken 121 wickets against India at an average of 32. His impressive tally includes nine five-wicket halls and two ten-wicket match hauls.

Lyon’s most remarkable performance against came in Adelaide in 2014 where he took 7/152 to guide Australia to a thrilling 48-run win on the last day.

He is also the third-most successful Australian bowler behind Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath with 530 wickets in test cricket.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.