Top 5 Indian batsmen with most international centuries after turning 30

Sachin Tendulkar has smashed most international centuries for India after turning 30.

In the illustrious history of Indian cricket, legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar and Rahul Dravid have left an indelible mark, engraving their names in the record books of the sport with stellar performances and remarkable careers. As these stalwarts progressed in age, they continued to demonstrate their capabilities, showcasing that age is just a number. Turning 30 marked a significant phase in their careers, where some found a new peak, achieving milestones that stand testament to their enduring skill and determination.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of their earlier years, these cricketers entered a chapter of their careers characterized by resilience and experience, leaving a legacy for future generations. So, let’s check the list of Indian batsmen with most international centuries after turning 30.

5. Sunil Gavaskar -16 centuries :

Sunil Gavaskar, fondly known as the “Little Master,” etched his name between the early ’70s to the late ’80s, showcasing a batting masterclass that defined an era. After crossing 30 in 1979, Gavaskar displayed a sublime ability to adapt, smashing an impressive 16 centuries across formats. This remarkable feat underscored his resilience and determination, providing a testament to his enduring greatness.

After turning 30, Gavaskar hit 15 test tons and one in ODIs. He scored 5717 in tests while he accumulated in ODIs.

4. Virat Kohli – 18 centuries :

Virat Kohli, the modern great of Indian cricket, has seamlessly transitioned from a prodigious talent in his youth to a legendary figure in the cricketing world. Turning 30 in 2018, Kohli embarked on a prolific journey, rewriting the record books with his remarkable consistency. Since then, Kohli has featured in 76 matches in ODIs and scored a staggering 3616 runs at an average of 55.63 including 12 centuries and 24 fifties. His highest score of 166* showcased his ability to convert starts into monumental innings.

Since turning 30, Kohli has hit 5 tons in 67 innings he has so far batted in tests with his highest being 254. T20Is witnessed Kohli’s dominance, where he has notched up 1935 runs at an astonishing average of 55.28. With a strike rate of 140.31, he blended elegance with aggression in most of his innings. The lone T20I century that Kohli has hit to date is his greatest score of 122*.

3. Rahul Dravid – 26 centuries :

Rahul Dravid, often hailed as the “Wall of Indian Cricket,” the former India captain also continues to shape the future of Indian cricket as the current head coach of the senior men’s cricket team. Dravid exemplified unparalleled temperament and patience throughout his illustrious career, earning him the admiration of fans worldwide. Beyond being among the best batsmen of his time, Dravid’s legacy endures, with a remarkable achievement of 26 international centuries after turning 30 in 2003.

From 2003 to 2012, Dravid played 94 test matches, accumulating a staggering 7651 runs at an impressive average of 52.04. His highest score of 270 against Pakistan in 2004 still remains one of the best innings by an Indian. Rahul scored 22 test centuries and also showcased his skills in ODIs as well after turning 30. Dravid played 146 matches and scored four centuries for his country.

2. Rohit Sharma – 33 centuries :

Rohit Sharma, the current captain of Indian cricket team, has not just redefined the art of batting but also emerged as one of the most formidable and dangerous batters of his generation. His ability to score big innings and create records has made him a standout player in contemporary cricket. Rohit recently achieved the unprecedented feat of becoming the only player to hit five T20I centuries.

Rohit Sharma turned 30 in 2017 and since then has been a centurion maestro, amassing an impressive 33 centuries across all formats of the game. After turning 30, he has so far hit 21 centuries in ODIs. His innings have been a spectacle of sublime timing, power and elegance. He has so far scored 5578 ODI runs after turning 30. The highlight of his ODI career post 30th birthday includes a highest score of 208*.

Since turning 30, Rohit has continued to dazzle in T20Is, with five centuries to his name. He has so far scored 2610 runs at a strike rate of 146.21 so far. His highest T20I score of 121* exemplifies his ability to dominate in the shortest format of the game. The current Indian captain has also had success in test cricket where he has hit eight centuries, with the highest score of 212 after turning 30.

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 35 centuries :

Sachin Tendulkar, the “God of Cricket,” stands as an immortal figure in the sport, having etched his name into the record books with an illustrious career. From representing India at the tender age of 16 to becoming the idol for every budding cricketer, Tendulkar’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His impact on the game extends beyond his records, as he remains an enduring source of inspiration.

Tendulkar showcased his batting mastery after turning 30 in 2003, scoring 7110 runs in 95 test matches at an impressive average of 49.72. His post-30 era witnessed him scoring 35 centuries, in which 20 centuries came in test cricket, solidifying his reputation as a run-scoring phenomenon. In ODIs, Tendulkar continued to mesmerize fans. He accumulated 6207 runs in 149 matches at an average of 45.63. His innings were a blend of elegance and power, resulting in 15 centuries.

(All stats updated till 26th January, 2024)

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