Most Catches for India in Tests Cricket History

Discover India's top Test fielders! From Dravid to Kohli, here are legends with the most catches in red-ball cricket.

  • Published - June 23, 2025 14:06:01
  • Updated - June 23, 2025 15:55:20
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Batting and bowling are often seen as the two pillars of cricket, but there’s another equally important aspect, which is fielding. And when it comes to Test Cricket, where patience and precision rule, one dropped catch can change the entire course of the game. In such a demanding format, having reliable fielders is a luxury no team can afford to ignore. India over the decade has been home to some of the World’s best world-class fielders who made their presence felt not just with the bat or ball, but with sharp reflexes and safe hands. Whether stationed in the slips or in the outfield, these players have turned half-chances into match-defining moments.

So today we will look at the top Indian players with the most catches in Test Cricket and not just as stats but will also check out how they have done the impossible feats. 

List of players with the Most Catches in Test Cricket for India

Player Span Matches Innings Catches Max in Innings Catches/Inning
Rahul Dravid 1996–2012 163 299 209 3 0.698
VVS Laxman 1996–2012 134 248 135 4 0.544
Virat Kohli 2011–2025 123 236 121 3 0.512
Sachin Tendulkar 1989–2013 200 366 115 3 0.314
Sunil Gavaskar 1971–1987 125 216 108 3 0.500
Mohammad Azharuddin 1984–2000 99 177 105 5 0.593
Ajinkya Rahane 2013–2023 85 163 102 5 0.625
Virender Sehwag 2001–2013 103 190 90 3 0.473
Dilip Vengsarkar 1976–1992 116 202 78 4 0.386
Sourav Ganguly 1996–2008 113 208 71 3 0.341

Read Also:- Most Test Centuries by Indian Wicket Keepers

Top 5 Most catches for India In Tests

1. Rahul Dravid – 209 Catches

The Indian player that tops the list of most catches for India in tests is Rahul Dravid the man is rightly called the wall of Cricket, he has all the reasons to be called so, scoring with bat he is solid on the field as a fielder as like an explosive batter. Over 16 years of his Test Cricket from 1996 to 2012, Dravid featured in 163 matches and took 209 catches which is the all time high record for Most Catches For India In Tests by any Indian player.

His average of nearly 0.7 cateches per innings speaks volume about his consistency and awareness. Rarely did he let a chance slip and especially in moments when India needed breakthrough the most. More than just a reliable pair of hands, Dravid brought calmness to pressure situations, a quality that helped him flourish both as a batsman and a slip fielder.

2. VVS Laxman-135 Catches

Next on the list of Indian players with most catches for India in Tests is Laxman, widely admired for his stylish stroke play, especially under pressure. But often went unnoticed as a commendable fielder and how steady he was in the field. Playing 134 test matches between 1996 and 2012, Laxman grabbed 135 catches. He maintained a catch-per-innings ratio of around 0.54 which showcases his sharp reflex and most particularly in the slip around the bat.

3. Virat Kohli -121 Catches

Virat Kohli, known for his aggressive attitude and unmatched energy on the field, ranks third in the list of players with most catches in a test by an Indian player. Making a Test Debut in 2011 and playing till 2025, Kohli featured in 123 Tests and took 121 catches. His energy often set the tone for India’s fielding effort. Whether fielding in the slips of the outfield, Kohli brought intensity and confidence that lifted the entire team. With a catch per innings ratio of just 0.51, he was not only a leader with the bat but also a game changer on the field.

4. Sachin Tendulkar- 115 Catches

No surprise to see Tendulkar in this elite list. Sachin a legend of the game and most-capped Test Cricketer for India. He played 200 matches between 1989 and 2013, taking 115 catches along the way. While most remember him for his centuries and batting contribution, Tendulkar’s contributions as a fielder often flew under the radar. Positioned mostly in the slips or midwicket, he was known for his secure hands and alertness on the field. He finished with a catch per innings ratio of 0.31, reflecting his all-round commitment to the team.

Also Read: Most T20 Centuries as Captain

5. Sunil Gavaskar – 108 Catches

One of the first modern-day greats of Indian Cricket, Sunil Gavaskar was not just a batting hero but also a very capable fielder. In his career from 1971 to 1987, he played 125 Tests and took 108 catches. With a catch inning average of 0.5, Gavaskar was a safe glove especially close to the bat. His fitness and game sense allowed him to anticipate edges and misjudgements turning them into valuable dismissals. His ability to hold on to tough chances added immense value during the early years of India’s journey in International Test Cricket