Securing victory in a Test match remains a significant achievement for captains and teams, despite the popularity of shorter formats. Test cricket, introduced in 1877, retains its prestige as the ultimate priority for many players. Winning with a substantial margin holds special importance, reflecting the team's dominance, often seen through formidable batting performances. In the 21st century, this trend persists, highlighting the enduring appeal and excitement of Test cricket as the purest form of the sport.
In recent years, Team India has enjoyed significant success in Test cricket both at home and abroad. Led by captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the team has demonstrated remarkable proficiency in winning Test matches on home soil. In a notable achievement, India secured a record-breaking victory against England, winning by a margin of 434 runs in the third Test held in Rajkot. This triumph under challenging circumstances has now established a new record for India's largest margin of victory in Test cricket history. Let’s take a look at the biggest margin of wins for Team India in Test match history;
3. India vs South Africa (337 runs- 2015)
Ajinkya Rahane along with Ravichandran Ashwin and Virat Kohli, propelled India to 334 runs despite South Africa's Dane Piedt and Kyle Abbott's fine bowling. Ravindra Jadeja's superb performance restricted South Africa to 121 runs. Opting not to enforce the follow-on, India extended their dominance with Kohli and Rahane's 154-run partnership, setting a daunting 380-run target. Ravichandran Ashwin's five-wicket haul further crippled South Africa's batting lineup. Eventually, Team India secured a commanding 337-run victory. Rahane and Kohli's contributions, along with Ashwin and Jadeja's bowling prowess, were instrumental in India's comprehensive triumph.
2. India vs New Zealand (372 runs- 2021)
Ajaz Patel shone with a well-deserved five-wicket haul in the first innings, but the celebrations were short-lived as he was soon required to bat during New Zealand's collapse, resulting in their dismissal for 62 runs. It was during this phase that the Indian spinners likely turned the match in their favor.
1. India vs England (434 runs- 2024)
India's victory over England showcased a collective team effort, highlighted by the batting unit posting scores of 400 or more in both innings. In the final innings, the Indian bowlers exhibited their prowess, dismissing Ben Stokes' team for just 122 runs.
Yashasvi Jaiswal was the standout performer with the bat, particularly in the Indian second innings. The left-handed batsman set multiple records by registering his second double-century of the series. Captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja had already laid a solid foundation with centuries in the opening innings. Jadeja's exceptional performance extended to the bowling department, where he secured a fifer for the second time in the same Test match, further contributing to India's comprehensive victory.