- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Mon, 12 May 2025 05:48 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Indian Test Cricket Captains List: From 2000 to 2025, several outstanding captains have influenced the success of the Indian Test cricket team. Every captain has had a significant impact on Indian cricket history, from Sourav Ganguly, who gave the team a fearless and audacious identity, to Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and others. These captains helped India win at home, climb in the ICC rankings, and assemble formidable teams in addition to leading the team in difficult international games.
Under MS Dhoni, India rose to the top of the Test rankings and Virat Kohli increased the team's strength and aggression, particularly in fast bowling and fitness. Under pressure, interim captains KL Rahul and Ajinkya Rahane also performed admirably. Through victories, awards, and standout performances, each captain made their mark and contributed a unique style.
List Of Indian Test Cricket Captains From 2000 To 2025 And Their Achievements
Let's take a look at every Indian Test cricket captain from 2000 to 2025 and the significant accomplishments they oversaw.
1. Sourav Ganguly (2000–2005)
2. Rahul Dravid (2005–2007)
3. Anil Kumble (2007–2008)
4. MS Dhoni (2008–2014)
5. Virat Kohli (2014–2022)
6. Ajinkya Rahane (Interim: 2020–2021)
7. KL Rahul (Interim: 2022–2023)
8. Rohit Sharma (2022–2025)
9. Jasprit Bumrah (Stand-in: 2022–2023)
1. Sourav Ganguly (2000–2005)
Test cricket captains list (Image: ANI)
When cricket in India was at its lowest, Sourav Ganguly took over. In addition to making India competitive abroad, he assembled a fearless team and provided opportunities for young players like Dhoni, Yuvraj, Harbhajan and Sehwag. Under his leadership, India advanced to the World Cup final in 2003 and drew a historic Test series against Australia from 2003 to 2004.
2. Rahul Dravid (2005–2007)
A calm and dependable leader, Rahul Dravid led India to its first-ever Test series win in the West Indies in 35 years (2006) and a rare series win in England (2007). His tenure focused on discipline, solid batting, and a professional approach.
3. Anil Kumble (2007–2008)
Despite his brief tenure as captain, Kumble was admired for his upright nature and handling of the contentious 2008 Sydney Test. During a difficult period of transition, he provided stability and mentored children.
4. MS Dhoni (2008–2014)
Test cricket captains list (Image: ANI)
Under Dhoni's leadership, India rose to the top of the Test rankings in 2009. He had a good record at home, winning 27 of 60 Test matches. His calm leadership allowed him to build a new team and smoothly replace the seniors.
5. Virat Kohli (2014–2022)
Test cricket captains list (Image: ANI)
Kohli, the most successful Test captain in India's history, won 40 of 68 games. He led India to their first-ever Test series victory in Australia (2018–19) by prioritising aggression and fitness. He also advanced to the 2021 WTC final and established a strong home record.
6. Ajinkya Rahane (Interim: 2020–2021)
Rahane is most known for having guided India to a historic victory in the 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar series in Australia following the disastrous Adelaide match. He was praised for his composed yet capable leadership during the Gabba Test.
7. Rohit Sharma (2022–2025)
India advanced to the 2023 World Test Championship Final thanks to Rohit's experience and poise. He oversaw a team going through generational changes while keeping a solid home record.
8. KL Rahul (Interim: 2022–2023)
KL during the absence of Rohit and Kohli, Rahul captained India in a few games. He held the team together during changes, particularly during the tours to Bangladesh and South Africa, and demonstrated promise in international Test matches.
9. Jasprit Bumrah (Stand-in: 2022–2023)
After more than 35 years, Bumrah became the first fast bowler to captain India. Even though he only captained one Test match (against England at Edgbaston in 2022), it was a historic occasion that demonstrated India's faith in bowlers' ability to lead.
10. Shubman Gill (2025-Incumbent)
Shubman Gill became the youngest Indian Test captain in 2025. Still new in his role, Gill is expected to lead India into a fresh era of Test cricket. Known for his calm nature and sharp cricketing mind, fans have high hopes for his leadership journey.