The Indian cricket team has a proud legacy of producing exceptional bowlers who consistently deliver match-winning performances. While they have excelled globally, their record at home stands as one of the most dominant in the world. With pitches that favor spinners, India’s spin bowlers have often been unstoppable on home soil. The rivalry between India and Australia is unique, marked by the stark contrast in conditions between the two nations. India’s recent success against Australia in Test cricket is largely attributed to the outstanding performances of their pacers.
5. Bishan Singh Bedi – 35 Wickets
Bishan Singh Bedi, renowned for his bowling discipline, was one of India’s finest spinners in the 20th century. He had a remarkable record in Australia, claiming 35 wickets in seven Tests at an average of 27, including three five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket match performance. His standout moment came in the 1977 Brisbane Test, where he took 5/55, helping India restrict Australia to just 166 runs in the first innings.
4. Ravichandran Ashwin – 40 Wickets
Ravichandran Ashwin, celebrated for his tactical brilliance and an impressive array of bowling variations, has been a vital figure in India’s Test cricket success. In 11 matches on Australian soil, Ashwin has claimed 40 wickets at an average of 42.42, showcasing his ability to adapt to challenging conditions. Despite Australian pitches being traditionally more suited to pace bowlers, Ashwin has managed to leave his mark with key contributions.
One of his standout performances came during the 2020 Adelaide Test, where his sharp turn and accuracy proved to be decisive. Ashwin bowled a magnificent spell, taking 4/55 in the first innings and dismantling Australia’s batting lineup. His efforts played a pivotal role in restricting the hosts to just 191 runs, giving India a strong foothold in the match. Ashwin’s ability to think on his feet, experiment with angles, and exploit even the slightest cracks on Australian pitches has made him one of India’s most dependable spinners overseas. His performances in Australia underline his prowess as one of the finest spin bowlers of the modern era.
3. Anil Kumble – 49 Wickets
Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket with 619 wickets, boasts an impressive record in Australia with 49 wickets in 10 Tests at an average of 37.73. His Australian career includes four five-wicket hauls, cementing his legacy as one of the best leg-spinners.
2. Kapil Dev – 51 Wickets
Kapil Dev, India’s greatest all-rounder, claimed 51 wickets in Australia at an average of 24.58, including five five-wicket hauls. His best performance came in the 1985 Adelaide Test, where he took 8/106 to help India dismiss Australia for 371 in the first innings. He remains India’s most successful fast bowler with 434 Test wickets.
1. Jasprit Bumrah – 53 Wickets
Jasprit Bumrah holds the record for the most Test wickets by an Indian bowler in Australia, with 53 wickets in 10 Tests at an exceptional average of 17.15, including three five-wicket hauls. His finest performance came in the 2018 Melbourne Test, where he took 6/33 in the first innings to guide India to a dominant 137-run victory.