Top 5 highest run-scorers for New Zealand against India in test cricket

Only one New Zealand batter has scored over 1000 runs against India in test cricket.

The Indian cricket team and the New Zealand cricket have have been a part of several classic test battles over the years. The rivalry has produced several compelling encounters, including the 2019-2021 ICC World Test Championship final, which the Black Caps won.

What has added this much spice to the rivalry is the fact that both countries produce contrasting pitches. While the Indian batting has generally found it tough to score in New Zealand’s swinging and seaming conditions, New Zealand’s batsmen’s record in India has also been poor as the Kiwis have managed only two test match wins on the spin-friendly Indian tracks.

In this article, we will explore the top five New Zealand batsmen who have scored the most runs against India in test cricket.

5. Kane Williamson – 871 runs

Kane Williamson, who is hailed as New Zealand’s greatest test batsman, has scored 871 runs against India in the longest format at an average of 37.86.

Known for his calm temperament and solid technique, Williamson has recorded two centuries and five fifties against India, with a highest score of 131. His ability to maneuver both spinners and pacers in the gap makes him one of the most special batsmen the game has seen.

4. Bert Sutcliffe – 885 runs

Legendary Kiwi batsman Bert Sutcliffe scored 885 runs against India at an astonishing average of 68.07.

With three centuries and three fifties, including his best score of 230*, Sutcliffe’s performances were instrumental in New Zealand’s success against India in the early years of the IND vs NZ encounters.

3. Ross Taylor – 890 runs

Ross Taylor, who was the rock in New Zealand’s middle-order for over a decade, scored 890 runs against India at an average of 30.68 in test matches.

Taylor registered three centuries and one fifty against India in tests, with his highest score being 151. His aggressive approach and ability to dominate spinners using the sweep shot made him a vital part of New Zealand’s lineup against the Asian giants.

2. Graham Dowling – 964 runs

Former Black Caps batsman Graham Dowling scored 964 runs against India at an impressive average of 48.20 in test cricket. This included three centuries and two fifties, with a highest score of 239.

Dowling’s contributions were crucial in the early years of New Zealand cricket. His leadership quality and high-quality batting ability make him an unforgettable part of the Kiwi cricketing history.

1. Brendon McCullum – 1224 runs

Former captain Brendon McCullum is New Zealand’s leading run-scorer against India in test cricket. McCullum ransacked 1224 runs against India at an outstanding average of 68.

Known for his fearless style of play, McCullum scored four centuries and two fifties against India in the longest format. McCullum’s career-best score of 302 also came against India at Wellington, where his gigantic knock helped New Zealand save the test match.

(All stats are updated till 15th October 2024)

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