Top 10 Best Test Captain of India – 2025 Updated

Captaincy in Test cricket is about more than simply tossing the coin or placing the fielders. It's about encouraging the team, making decisions on tactics, and showing resilience in tough situations. The best test captain of India is not just a leader but also the country's face for cricket, carrying the aspirations and dreams of millions on their shoulders.

Every captain introduces their special style on the ground, which affects not only the results of the match but also the spirit of the game. Test cricket demands a patient, strategically aware, and adaptable leader who can use their sharp mind during crucial circumstances, qualities that set the greats apart from the ordinary captain. Their ability to sense the game, take courageous decisions in the face of adversity, and grow the young guns has been the backbone behind India's consistent performance in the Test series.

Ranking Factors

The top 10 best test captain of India are ranked based on some ranking factors, which makes it easy to rank these best test captain of Indian fairly and accurately. These are the ranking factors:

• Win Percentage: The win percentage is the number of wins over the number of matches played under the captaincy of the particular captain. It basically measures the overall success rate of wins vs total matches captained. This indicates the leadership qualities of the player to lead the team to win a more number of matches. A captain with a higher win percentage is always considered to be the best test captain of India.
• Overseas Wins & Series Success: The overseas wins and series success show the dominance created by the captain of the team over the other teams. This involves the captains who led India to victory in countries like Australia, England, or South Africa, who earn higher marks in their captaincy, as these overseas wins are not an easy task for a team to achieve. This helps in understanding the ability of the captain to lead the team so well that they could win overseas and show utter dominance in test cricket.
• Impact on Team Development: The captain of the team has a responsibility to create an impact on team development, which includes the squad-building process for the match, where the captain should play a major role in selecting players for the team that are needed by him, and create a strong squad. This also involves whether the captain is fostering the new talent in the team and giving them full exposure in the game of cricket. The main impact of the captain on the team is about making a winning environment, where the team should be playing with only one approach to win, and not just for the sake of drawing the match.
• Leadership in Adversity: The leadership in adversity helps in understanding the ability of the captain to take the team forward with exceptional performance during tough series, injury crises, or transitional phases where the player has retired from cricket, and a new player is taking up the spot. This shows how well the player is taking the team during the phase, which is not an easy task for the team as a whole.
• ICC Test Rankings Achieved: The captaincy of the player is assessed through the ICC Test rankings achieved during the captaincy tenure. This shows whether the team reached or maintained the No. 1 ICC Test ranking under the particular captain's leadership. This indicates how well the captain has led the team against each and every opposition to be in the number one position in the world rankings.
• Bowlers' Utilization & Strategy: The bowlers' utilization and strategy by the captain show how efficiently the captain has used his bowling attack with proper tactics and strategy to put pressure on the opposition in taking wickets. This shows how well the captains manage pace or spin rotations and make tactical field changes, especially in Tests. This shows the captain's strategic mind while leading the team in the longest format of the game.
• Long-Term Legacy: The long-term legacy of the captain shows the impact left by the captain in Indian test cricket and how the captain’s leadership has shaped India’s Test future with a new style, aggression, and professionalism. For instance, the long-term legacy left by Virat Kohli in the Indian Test cricket setup with his different style and approach towards the game, with aggression and the urge to win every match, no matter where the team is playing.
• Series Wins vs Top Teams: The series win over the top team shows the level of the cricket team and leadership skills of the captain to win against the best teams in the world. This involves wins against Australia, England, South Africa, or Pakistan carry more weight than against lower-ranked teams. This shows the level of cricket being played between the two teams and the competitive cricket being played.
• Home Dominance: The home dominance of the team shows the team being unbeatable at home and doesn't let any other team win on Indian soil. This involves maintaining India’s formidable record at home reflects control, planning, and bench strength. This shows how well the team plays the game of cricket in their home and doesn't let any other team come near the winning situation when playing in India.
• Player Performance Under Captaincy: The player's performance under the captaincy of the captain shows how well the player is used by the captain and took best out of that player. This shows whether key players (batters, bowlers) improved their output under the captain’s leadership, like Mohammed Siraj has done his best under the captaincy of Virat Kohli and has performed up to the mark in every format.

Top 10 Best Test Captain of India - Updated List 2025-26

There are many players who have led the Indian Test team in the international setup and have even been successful in providing positive results, whereas some of them lacked leadership part but continue to prove their worth playing as a player. Here is the list of the top 10 best test captain of India who have captained the Indian side and have achieved winning results.

Who is the Most Successful Test Captain of India?

The title of the most successful Test captain in India is not just about winning matches; it's about redefining Indian cricket in the longest format of the game. Over the years, Indian cricket has been blessed with leaders who have revolutionized the country's perception of Test cricket. In this article, we will find out who is the best Test captain of India.

10. Anil Kumble

Anil Kumble is often known for his exceptional leg-spin bowling and amazing wicket-taking ability. He ranks among the best captains of India in Test cricket. 'Jumbo' was appointed as the captain for the red-ball format in the year 2007. It was a transition period for Indian cricket, with fresh faces replacing the legends. He was a calm and composed skipper with an exceptional strategic mind and a warrior-like spirit on the field.

Kumble's captaincy was put to the greatest test in the controversial Sydney Test against Australia in 2008. His calm handling of the affair, amidst all the pressure he faced, reflected his strong moral fiber and respect for the game. Although it was a short stint as skipper, Anil Kumble remains one of the best Test captains of India to date. In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 14 matches, where the team only won 3 times, and 6 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 21.42%. Kumble's influence was deeply impactful for the Men in Blue.

9. Bishan Singh Bedi

Bishan Singh Bedi's leadership style was both simple and bold. He was a firm believer in playing tough with honest cricket, maintaining the rules and regulations of the game, with his captaincy mainly depending on outsmarting rivals with ability and strategy. He led the Men in Blue Test team from 1975 to 1978. This was a new way to Indian cricket with his toughness and uncompromising attitude towards the game. During his captaincy, India won major games, such as a historic win against the West Indies at Port of Spain in 1976.

At his peak, the left-arm spinner spun a web over some of the best batsmen in the world. That is why he has been the best left-arm spinner in cricket history. His fantastic bowling action and ability to deliver sharp and big turns on all types of surfaces made him a deadly bowler. In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 22 matches, where the team only won 6 times, and 5 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 27.27%. As a captain, he led by example, often setting attacking fields and pushing his bowlers to go for wickets rather than merely containing runs.

8. Ajit Wadekar

Ajit Wadekar's name stands out in the history of Indian cricket as one of the greatest Test captains of India. Succession to the leadership of the legendary Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, Wadekar's captaincy stint was nothing less than revolutionary. Wadekar's greatest moment as captain was achieved in India's historic series victories over the West Indies and England in 1971. This was a historic moment in Indian cricket history.

Under Wadekar, India won its first-ever Test series in the Caribbean Islands and followed it up with a stunning victory on English soil. Wadekar was famous for his keen cricketing brain and bold decision-making. His captaincy introduced to the team a sense of togetherness and belief, which made India a global powerhouse.

In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 16 matches, where the team only won 4 times, and 8 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 25%. In the dressing room, he created discipline and a strict environment so that players like Sunil Gavaskar and Gundappa Viswanath could sharpen their skills. Ajit Wadekar remained a part of Indian cricket as a coach and selector. This is the reason he remains one of the most successful Test captains in India.

7. Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane has been one of the most underrated captains and players for India. Though his stint as captain was brief, it was impactful enough to etch his name among the contenders for the most successful Test captain in India. Rahane’s leadership style is defined by calmness, strategic clarity, and an unyielding spirit that brings out the best in his teammates. The crowning moment of Rahane's captaincy came during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. After a crushing defeat in the first Test, where India were bowled out for their lowest-ever score of 36, Rahane took over the reins from Virat Kohli, who left to attend the birth of his child. With calmness and determination, Rahane steered India to an unforgettable win in Melbourne. Rahane boldly and confidently led India to a historic victory in Melbourne.

In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 6 matches, where the team only won 4 times, and 2 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 66.66%. The Indian team hasn't lost a test match under his captaincy till now. His captaincy continued to inspire the team as they fought through injuries and adversity to a terrific series win at the Gabba, Australia's fortress for over 30 years. Though his captaincy opportunities were limited, Rahane’s stint remains one of the shining examples of resilience and tactical brilliance. This is the reason he remains one of the most successful Test captains in India.

6. Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid is widely regarded not only as "The Wall" of Indian cricket but also as a leader whose calm demeanor and strategic intelligence revolutionized Indian Test cricket. His tenure as captain was filled with controversy in 2007 as he could not lead the side to the knockout of the ICC ODI World Cup in the West Indies. However, in the traditional format, it was filled with memorable wins that sealed his reputation as one of the most successful Test captains of India.

In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 25 matches, where the team only won 8 times, and 11 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 32%. India accomplished some great milestones under Dravid, including their first Test series victory in England in 21 years in 2007. His strategic brilliance was also obvious in the 2006 West Indies series win, which came after 35 years. Dravid’s legacy as a captain goes beyond the wins; it’s about the culture of grit and determination he instilled in the team.

5. Mohammad Azharuddin

Mohammad Azharuddin is one of the most successful Test captains in India, recognized for his beautiful stroke play and sharp cricketing mind. Azharuddin's captaincy began in 1989, and he soon established himself as a leader capable of inspiring his side to excel on the highest platforms. During his tenure, the Men in Blue became a dominant power at home, with extraordinary success in Test matches played on Indian soil. In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 47 matches, where the team only won 14 times, and 19 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 29.78%.

His ability to understand the game and make tactical decisions in critical moments distinguished him from other cricketers. Azharuddin's bowling changes, alterations in batting order, and fielding arrangements often changed the game to India's favor; a skill he possessed by his deep understanding of the game of cricket. Azharuddin's value to the game of cricket, with his class and dignity, also earned him respect within international cricket. Despite all the match-fixing controversies, he has been one of the finest cricketers as well.

4. Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma, called the "Hitman" of Indian cricket, has made a massive impact in white-ball cricket through his destructive batting, remarkable consistency, and capability to make a game-changing knock in high-profile tournaments. Apart from his batting, he has been one of the all-time best Test captain of India. He led the side in the 2023 World Test Championship final, showcasing exceptional leadership and an excellent understanding of the game.

The 38-year-old’s career as a captain has been full of ups and downs, with standout moments of his captaincy, was India's historic Test series win against Australia in 2024 and before that against England and the West Indies. Rohit's ability to back young talents and extract the best out of experienced players has been a game-changer. In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 24 matches, where the team only won 12 times, and 3 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 50%.

Although a home series loss against New Zealand created controversies over his leadership roles, he has been an excellent skipper for India across formats. Rohit, after leading India for 16 matches, announced his retirement from the longest format of the game. He announced on 7 May 2025, ahead of India's England tour.

3. MS Dhoni

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, also known as "Captain Cool," is more than a cricket superstar. Dhoni is a global icon and one of the most successful sports figures in history. Dhoni captained India to three ICC trophies in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy. He changed the dynamics of wicket-keeping with lightning-fast reflexes behind the stumps.

Apart from leading India in the limited-overs format, Dhoni led India in the traditional format of the game. He is widely regarded as the best Test captain of India. Under Dhoni's captaincy, India moved to the peak of Test cricket, becoming the top-ranked Test team in 2009. India's historic series victory against New Zealand in 2009 and their 4-0 thrashing of Australia in 2013. In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 60 matches, where the team only won 27 times, and 15 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 45%. He retired in the middle of the BGT series in Australia in 2014.

2. Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly is largely regarded as the best Test captain of India, having changed Indian cricket via his bold attitude and forceful leadership. His capacity to nurture young talents like Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, and Harbhajan Singh, who later on won matches for the nation in both Test and limited-overs cricket. Sourav Ganguly's legacy as India's Test captain is not only about the wins but about giving Indian cricket self-belief.

His period marked the dawn of India's belief that they could win not only at home, but even overseas. He took over the captaincy after the match fixing controversies and led India to iconic Test victories in Australia, England, and Pakistan under the captaincy of Ganguly, proving their mettle in challenging situations. He captained India between 2000 and 2005, for 49 matches, where the team only won 21 times, and 15 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 42.85%. This is the reason he remains as best captain of India in Tests.

1. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has been the greatest ODI batter of all time. He is the ‘modern master’ of cricket; he sits at the top of the most ODI hundreds list. He has been the face of Indian and world cricket for many years. Between 2017 and 2019, Kohli scored nearly 3,500 Test runs at a staggering average of 64.61. He scored 14 Test hundreds during this time. During this time, he also led India in the red ball format. He has 7 double centuries, which is the most by any captain in the longest format of the game.

Since taking over the captaincy of Test cricket in 2014, he redefined Indian Test cricket with his dynamic leadership and aggressive style of playing cricket, earning him the title of the best captain of India in Test history. Under Kohli's captaincy, India reached the pinnacle of the ICC Test rankings and stayed there for a record 42 months. In his captaincy tenure, he captained the side for 68 matches, where the team only won 40 times, and 11 times it went to a draw, where a winning percentage was 58.82%.

India’s historic series win in Australia in 2018-19, their first-ever Down Under, is one of the crowning achievements of his captaincy. He has been one of the finest in the red ball format, leading India. Recently, the former India captain retired from Test cricket right ahead of India's tour to England, but he is regarded as the best Test captain of India.

Who is the best test captain in India of all time?

The best test captain in India of all time is none other than Virat Kohli. Virat has completely changed the Indian test cricket system, where he became the icon of test cricket around the world. Virat has been the answer to the question, Who is the best test captain of India. His approach towards the game was crystal clear to win the match, no matter where they were playing, at home or overseas. With this kind of mindset, he has been the most successful Indian captain overseas, where he went on to win many overseas matches, and keeping his leadership qualities aside, he was in his prime batting form during the years of his captaincy and scored plenty of runs. He has been supportive to the new young talent coming into the team and gets the best out of them too. His retirement from test cricket was the most unwanted and disheartening news for the fans of cricket around the world.