4 Indian cricketers who have played 100+ Test matches but never captained

No matter what formats come, the beauty of Test cricket cannot be overshadowed. As the name suggests, it really 'tests' the players' skill, patience, and endurance to be successful on the field. While it is every cricketer's dream to represent their country in the all-white team, excelling and getting a long run in the oldest format of the game is not everyone's cup of tea.

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Playing 100 matches in any format is a remarkable achievement for a cricketer. A total of 13 players have managed to play over 100 Tests for India so far. However, it is interesting to note that only four players in the elite list did not get a chance to lead the side. This article will take you to those four players who have never led the Indian team in international cricket. 

Also Read: Top 8 Indian captains to secure Test series wins over England

4. VVS Laxman 

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VVS Laxman, one of India's Test specialists, has represented India in 134 matches during his 16-year career. His remarkable skill and patience helped him amass over 8700 runs at an average of 45.5, including 17 centuries and two double centuries. However, despite leading a stellar career, the right-hander was never able to lead the team. 

3. Harbhajan Singh 

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Legendary spinner Harbhajan Singh has played 103 Test matches in 17 years but never managed to lead the side. He took 417 wickets at an economy rate of 2.84 and an average of 32.46. Having scored over 2000 runs including 2 centuries and 9 fifties, 'The Turbanator' contributed immensely to India's batting department. 

2. Ishant Sharma 

If you put legend Kapil Dev in the all-rounder's list, Ishant Sharma is the first Indian pacer to play 100 Test matches. The 6 ft 5 in Delhi cricketer has played 105 matches and picked up 311 wickets at an economy of 3.16 and an average of 32.42. However, the right-arm fast bowler is yet to get a chance to lead the Indian team. 

1. Cheteshwar Pujara 

Cheteshwar Pujara has been a long-serving member of the Indian cricket team in the Test format but has never captained the team. Ishant and Pujara are the only active cricketers on this list, but neither is likely to get a chance to lead the team in the future. In fact, their presence in the Playing XI is also in major doubt. Pujara played 103 matches and scored 7195 runs at an average of 43.61 including 19 centuries and 3 double centuries.