All Time Greatest Test XI of India

Middle Order

Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid forms a pillar in the batting line up

The role of a No.3 batsman is crucial in every format, and it becomes even more challenging in Test cricket. In case of an early wicket, the batsman has to set the tone for the innings, and coming in after a huge opening partnership he has to maintain the momentum.

Dravid was an exemplary batsman for India over the years, and he personified class, elegance, discipline and devotion. One of the most dedicated and selfless players, Dravid was so arduous that he could single-handedly frustrate the opposition's bowling line up, mentally more than physically.

His stature as a player can be ascertained by the fact that his wicket was priced more than that of maestro Sachin Tendulkar. Hailed as The Wall, Dravid came as a blessing to India's foreign agonies as he exhibited immaculate batsmanship in away tours. He was also an athletic fielder, with the record for most catches by a non-wicketkeeper, 210.

Dravid formed a pillar of the batting line up, and he ended up facing the most number of balls and spent the highest time on the crease in Test cricket. Dravid is the second highest run scorer for India and the fifth overall in the longest format.

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Rahul Dravid's Test Record

Matches: 164 Runs: 13,288 Average: 52.31 100s: 36 200s: 5 Best: 270

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Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar is world's highest run scorer in Tests

This name requires no introduction. Sachin Tendulkar is the player you would be instantly wanting in your team, as he ticks all the checkboxes of a complete player. The Master has been a prolific run scorer for India in the longest format of the game for more than two decades.

Entering the international arena at a tender age of 16, Tendulkar took by storm some of the most lethal bowling attacks of sides such as Australia, England and Pakistan, that too, at their own backyard. Tendulkar boasted of technique coupled with the temperament to succeed in the longest format of the game. He had a wide array of shots, but his pristine straight drive topped it all.

Sachin was a multi-dimensional player, who contributed in all sorts of situations. He had the ability to build the innings patiently, score at a brisk pace and to negotiate some of the finest bowling attacks to save a match. He was also handy with his bowling and played the vital role of a partnership breaker.

Inevitably, Master Blaster ended up with the highest runs in Test cricket and the most centuries.

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Sachin Tendulkar's Test Record

Matches: 200 Runs: 15,921 Average: 53.78 100s: 51 200s: 6 Best:248*

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Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has scored the joint-most double centuries by an Indian

Virat Kohli is unarguably the best batsman in the world at the moment. The 29-year old is the youngest player in this squad. Virat is a batsman who stamps his authority on every game and opposition. He likes to dominate the game in every situation and more often than not takes his team cross the line.

The Indian captain possesses the 4 Ts, Talent, Technique, Timing and Temperament to succeed in Test cricket. Initially termed as a limited overs specialist, Kohli shrugged off the tag with consistent performances, especially on overseas tours. He has the capability of wearing out and tearing out any bowling attack with his mindful calculations.

He showcased his ability to play a long innings by amassing 6 double centuries, joint most by an Indian, within a span of 17 months. Kohli forms a vital cog at the No.5 slot, as he can negotiate and accelerate as per the situation.

With a passion to win, and a hunger second to none, Virat gets going with his disciplined approach without any psychological barrier. He has proved time and again that verbal duels would not be effective against him, as they seem to drive him harder. He has scored runs in all parts of the world except England, and he would be keen on making an impact on the English turf.

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Virat Kohli's Test Record:

Matches: 66 Runs: 5554 Average: 53.4 100s: 21 200s: 6 Best: 243

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Dravid, Tendulkar and Kohli are complete batsmen in all respects, with the ability to score overseas and play big knocks. The trio forms a formidable middle order.