Top 10 Highest Scores by an Indian Captain In a Test Match

The Indian Cricket Team has always been home to several icons who not only led the team tactically but also contributed significantly with the bat. In test matches, the Indian team, with the captain, have been capable of responsibilities, and these players have risen to the occasion with remarkable individual performances. In the recent test match held between India and England on July 02, 2025, Shubman Gill broke all the previous records of Indian captains who scored the highest in a test match during their captaincy, hitting 269. Shubman became the highest scorer as an Indian captain in a test match. 

Source: espncricinfo

In this article, we will highlight the top 10 highest individual scores by Indian captains in Test matches, which shows their grit, determination, and ability to lead from the front.

Top 10 Highest Scores by an Indian Captain In a Test Match

Here is the list of the top 10 highest scores by an Indian captain in a test match.

Top 5 Batters: Leading from the Front

1. Shubman Gill – 269 vs England (02 Jul 2025, Birmingham):

In a test match between India and England, Shubman Gill just broke the record by hitting 269 and breaking all the previous records by Indian captains who made individual scores in their captaincy. This is the highest ever test score by an Indian captain.

2. Virat Kohli – 254 vs South Africa (10 Oct 2019, Pune)*:

Source: Sportskeeda

Virat Kohli, who is also known for his consistency and hunger for big scores, was the highest individual scorer in a test match as a captain before Shubman Gill. He scored 254 runs against South Africa in Pune. This innings was a blend of controlled aggression and classical stroke play. It remains Kohli’s highest Test score and one of the most dominant innings in his captaincy era.

3. Virat Kohli – 243 vs Sri Lanka (02 Dec 2017, Delhi):

Source: instagram/royalchallengers.bengaluru

In 2017, in his hometown of Delhi, Kohli scored 243 against Sri Lanka. It was a commanding display that dismantled the Lankan bowling attack. Although India couldn't force a win due to time constraints and pollution concerns affecting play, this innings reflected Kohli’s ability to bat long and convert starts into double centuries.

4. Virat Kohli – 235 vs England (08 Dec 2016, Wankhede)

In the historic 2016 series against England, Kohli played a majestic innings of 235 at the Wankhede Stadium. Facing a quality attack, he combined flair with patience and helped India secure a massive win. This performance was crucial in sealing the series and firmly established Kohli as one of the premier Test batters.

5. MS Dhoni – 224 vs Australia (22 Feb 2013, Chennai)

The ever-reliable MS Dhoni played his finest Test innings as captain against Australia, scoring a blazing 224. Coming in under pressure, Dhoni counterattacked the Aussie bowlers with aggression and authority. His knock turned the match in India’s favour and remains the highest Test score by a wicketkeeper-captain for India.

Conclusion

These top performances by Indian captains underscore the blend of leadership and batting excellence. Whether it is the flamboyance of Kohli, the calm aggression of Dhoni, or the rising dominance of Shubman Gill, these innings have not only shaped Test matches but also inspired future generations. Batting big while carrying the responsibility of captaincy is no small feat—and these players have done it with style, grit, and impact.