Against which countries did Sachin Tendulkar score the most Test runs? Positions 1 and 2 are predictable, but 6 is a surprise
Just like Brian Lara, who we featured last week, Sachin Tendulkar was one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era.
He scored at least one century against each of the Test-playing nations that he faced in his career.
With a total of 15,921 runs in his Test career, at an average of 53.78, Tendulkar finished his career with 51 Test centuries.
But against whom did he score the bulk of his runs? Here’s a quick look at the countries Tendulkar most enjoyed batting against.
Bangladesh – 820 Test runs from 7 matches at an average of 136.66 (highest score: 248 not out)
Tendulkar’s dominance over Bangladesh was emphatic, albeit from a limited sample of matches. In just seven Tests, he amassed 820 runs at an astonishing average of 136.66.
His highest Test score of 248* came against Bangladesh in Dhaka in December 2004, highlighting his ability to capitalize on favourable conditions and weaker bowling attacks.
8. Zimbabwe – 918 Test runs from 9 matches at an average of 76.50 (highes score: 201 not out)
Against Zimbabwe, Tendulkar maintained a formidable average of 76.50 across nine Tests. His unbeaten 201 in Nagpur in 2000 stands out as a testament to his concentration and technique. W
hile Zimbabwe’s bowling lineup lacked the firepower of other nations, Tendulkar’s consistency ensured he made the most of these opportunities. His knock of 201 was made against an attack than included Heath Streak, Henry Olonga, Mluleki Nkala and Grant Flower.
7. Pakistan – 1,057 Test runs from 18 matches at an average of 42.28 (highest score: 194 not out)
Matches against arch-rivals Pakistan were always high-pressure affairs. Tendulkar’s 1,057 runs at an average of 42.28 reflect both his resilience and the challenging nature of these encounters.
His highest score against Pakistan, an unbeaten 194, came in Multan in 2004, a match remembered for India’s dominant performance.
His batting average against Pakistan was his lowest against any opposition – perhaps it’s a reflection on the quality of the Pakistan attack or perhaps the scale of the rivalry against their neighbours has something to do with it.
Either way, an average of above 40 per innings is still a fantastic achievement.
6. New Zealand – 1,595 Test runs from 24 matches at an average of 46.91 (highest score: 217)
Facing New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attacks, Tendulkar accumulated 1,595 runs at an average of 46.91.
His top score of 217 in Ahmedabad in 1999 highlighted his ability to build long innings, adapting to varying pitch conditions and opposition strategies.
Also read: Against which countries did Brian Lara score the most Test runs?
5. West Indies – 1,630 Test runs from 21 matches at an average of 54.33 (highest score: 179)
Against the West Indies, Tendulkar’s average of 54.33 across 21 Tests underscores his consistency. His highest score of 179 came in Nagpur in 1994, a match where his fluent stroke play was on full display.
Despite the West Indies’ rich bowling heritage, Tendulkar often found ways to counter their strategies effectively.
4. South Africa – 1,741 Test runs from 25 matches at an average of 42.46 (highest score: 169)
The Proteas’ pace-heavy attacks posed significant challenges, especially on the bouncy South Africa tracks, yet Tendulkar managed 1,741 runs at an average of 42.46.
His 169 in Cape Town in 1997 is particularly noteworthy, achieved against a formidable bowling lineup, featuring Allan Donald, Shaun Pollock, Lance Klusener and Brian McMillan, in testing conditions. This innings exemplified his technical prowess and mental fortitude.
3. Sri Lanka – 1,995 Test runs from 25 matches at an average of 60.45 (highest score: 203)
Tendulkar’s encounters with Sri Lanka yielded 1,995 runs at an impressive average of 60.45.
His double century (203) in Colombo in 2010 was a masterclass in patience and shot selection, especially against the spin duo of Muralitharan and Herath. His performances often laid the foundation for India‘s successes in the subcontinent.
2. England – 2,535 Test runs from 32 matches at an average of 51.73 (highest score: 193)
In England conditions, known for their swing and seam movement, Tendulkar’s tally of 2,535 runs at an average of 51.73 is commendable.
His highest score of 193 at Headingley in 2002 was instrumental in India’s innings victory, showcasing his adaptability and class. Throughout his career, he consistently performed in challenging English conditions.
1. Australia – 3,630 Test runs from 39 matches at an average of 55.00 (highest score: 241 not out)
Australia, with its competitive spirit and aggressive bowling attacks, brought out the best in Tendulkar. His 3,630 runs at an average of 55.00 across 39 Tests stand as a testament to his greatness.
The unbeaten 241 in Sydney in 2004, where he famously curbed his cover drive to minimize risk, exemplifies his strategic acumen and discipline. His duels with bowlers like McGrath, Warne, and Lee are etched in cricketing folklore.
