The India vs England rivalry in Test cricket is one of the oldest and most fiercely contested battles in the sport’s history. Since 1932, when India played its first-ever Test against England at Lord’s, the two sides have produced countless unforgettable moments. Central to this historic rivalry are the bowlers who have turned matches around with their skill, discipline, and magic with the ball. In this blog, we look at the top wicket-takers in India vs England Test match history, celebrating the players who have dominated the pitch over the decades.

1. James Anderson (England)

Matches: 39

Wickets: 149

Best Bowling: 5/20

Average: 24.53

5-wicket hauls: 6

At the very top of the list is James Anderson, England’s bowling legend and the most successful fast bowler in Test history. His dominance over Indian batters, especially in English conditions, has been exceptional. Known for his masterful control of swing, Anderson has dismissed some of India’s best batters multiple times, including Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara.

His performances in 2014 and 2021 stand out, particularly his spells at Lord’s and Chennai. Anderson continues to be a threat even in his 40s, making him the top wicket-taker in India vs England Test match history.

2. Bhagwat Chandrasekhar (India)

Matches: 23

Wickets: 95

Best Bowling: 6/38

Average: 27.27

5-wicket hauls: 8

One of the greatest wrist spinners India has ever produced, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar was a nightmare for English batters in the 1960s and 70s. His unpredictable deliveries, often delivered with a whippy action, made him lethal on turning tracks.

Chandrasekhar’s most famous spell came in 1971 at The Oval, where his six wickets helped India secure their first-ever Test victory on English soil. His 8 five-wicket hauls against England prove just how impactful he was in this fixture.

3. Anil Kumble (India)

Matches: 19

Wickets: 92

Best Bowling: 7/115

Average: 30.59

5-wicket hauls: 4

India’s leading wicket-taker in Tests, Anil Kumble, played a major role in India’s success against England both at home and away. His ability to extract bounce and bowl tirelessly made him a key figure in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Kumble’s most memorable performance came in the 2002 series in India, where he consistently troubled the English batters. His record places him firmly among the top wicket-takers in India vs England Test match history.

4. Bishan Singh Bedi (India)

Matches: 22

Wickets: 85

Best Bowling: 6/71

Average: 30.60

5-wicket hauls: 6

Another member of India’s famous spin quartet, Bishan Singh Bedi was known for his elegant action and guileful bowling. He often tormented English batsmen with his flight and accuracy, especially during home series.

Bedi’s performances in the 1972–73 series at home were particularly noteworthy, where his left-arm orthodox spin turned games in India’s favour.

5. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)

Matches: 20

Wickets: 88

Best Bowling: 6/55

Average: 28.59

5-wicket hauls: 6

A modern great in the longest format, Ravichandran Ashwin has been India’s spin spearhead for over a decade. Against England, he has consistently delivered strong performances, especially in India where he thrives on turning pitches.

Ashwin’s performance in the 2021 home series was remarkable, where he took over 30 wickets and even contributed with the bat. His control, variation, and cricketing intelligence have made him one of the leading wicket-takers in India vs England Tests.

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6. Derek Underwood (England)

Matches: 20

Wickets: 62

Best Bowling: 8/53

Average: 26.34

5-wicket hauls: 3

Nicknamed “Deadly” for a reason, Derek Underwood was England’s most effective spinner in the pre-modern era. On uncovered wickets and helpful surfaces in India, Underwood was devastating with his accurate left-arm spin.

His match-winning spell of 8/53 in Delhi during the 1976–77 series remains one of the finest bowling performances by an English spinner on Indian soil.

7. Kapil Dev (India)

Matches: 27

Wickets: 85

Best Bowling: 5/70

Average: 30.17

5-wicket hauls: 4

India’s greatest fast bowler and 1983 World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev was a match-winner with both bat and ball. Against England, he consistently led India’s bowling attack, especially in overseas conditions where seamers had to do the hard work.

Kapil’s 5/70 at Lord’s in 1982 was a fine example of his skill and stamina, making him one of the top Indian wicket-takers vs England in Tests.

8. Fred Trueman (England)

Matches: 11

Wickets: 63

Best Bowling: 8/31

Average: 18.84

5-wicket hauls: 4

One of England’s first great fast bowlers, Fred Trueman was a fierce competitor who brought pace and aggression to the field. His record against India is exceptional considering the limited number of matches he played.

His 8/31 at Old Trafford in 1952 helped England bowl India out for just 58, setting up a huge win. Trueman’s strike rate and consistency made him a nightmare for Indian batters unfamiliar with raw pace.

9. Ravindra Jadeja (India)

Matches: 19

Wickets: 63

Best Bowling: 7/48

Average: 25.34

5-wicket hauls: 4

Often overshadowed by Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja has quietly built a strong record against England. His accuracy, subtle variations, and stamina make him a reliable wicket-taker, particularly in Indian conditions.

Jadeja’s 7-wicket haul in Chennai (2021) helped India win by an innings and set the tone for the series. His all-round contributions continue to be vital in India’s Test success.

Conclusion

Over the decades, both India and England have produced legendary bowlers who have risen to the occasion in this iconic rivalry. From the swing of Anderson to the spin of Chandrasekhar and Ashwin, the bowlers have played a massive role in deciding the outcomes of these fiercely fought contests.

The top wicket-takers in India vs England Test match history have not only delivered match-winning spells but have also defined the very character of Test cricket — skill, patience, and unrelenting pressure. As the rivalry continues to evolve, fans can expect more legends to emerge and challenge these long-standing records.

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Top Wicket-Takers in India vs England Test Match History