Batters score runs, bowlers take wickets, but it’s the catches that really win matches. This holds true for all formats of the game. Even in today’s cricket, catches are key. A fielder who takes those match winning catches can turn the tide, while dropping one can hurt a team’s chances, especially in close matches, whether it’s a T20 or a Test match. A dropped catch can knock the wind out of a team’s sails.
Let’s take a look at the Indian players who have taken the most catches in Test cricket:
| Player | Span | M | Inn | Catches | Max Catches in an Innings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R Dravid | 1996–2012 | 163 | 299 | 209 | 3 |
| VVS Laxman | 1996–2012 | 134 | 248 | 135 | 4 |
| V Kohli | 2011–2025 | 123 | 236 | 121 | 3 |
| SR Tendulkar | 1989–2013 | 200 | 366 | 115 | 3 |
| SM Gavaskar | 1971–1987 | 125 | 216 | 108 | 3 |
1. Rahul Dravid – 209 Catches
At the top is former Indian captain Rahul Dravid. Known as The Wall, he was a solid player on and off the field. Played from 1996 to 2012 in 163 Test matches, he took 209 catches, the most for an Indian player in Test cricket. Dravid’s patience in the slips led to countless crucial catches, he was one of the safest fielders.
Read Also:- Most Runs in an innings in Test Cricket History
2. VVS Laxman – 135 Catches
Next up is VVS Laxman, who played from 1996 to 2012 in 134 Test matches, with 135 catches. Laxman was a great fielder who rose to the occasion both with the bat and in the field. He led by example and was a standout player.
3. Virat Kohli – 121 Catches
In third place we have the dynamic former captain Virat Kohli. Played from 2011 to 2025 and 123 Test matches, Kohli was known for his batting and lively fielding. His energy could lift the team’s spirit and he took 121 catches throughout his career.
4. Sachin Tendulkar – 115 Catches
Fourth is the legend Sachin Tendulkar, who played his last Test in 2013 after starting his career in 1989. He played 200 Test matches and took 115 catches. Known as the God of Cricket, Tendulkar was a great batsman and had reliable hands in the field.
See Also: – Asia Cup Winners List 1984 – 2025
5. Sunil Gavaskar – 108 Catches
And last but not least Sunil Gavaskar, a great player from 1971 to 1987. In 125 matches he took 108 catches. He was a big figure in Indian cricket and had a catch per innings ratio of 0.5, he was a good fielder in his time.
These guys have all been instrumental in Indian cricket’s success through their catching.
