India’s Best Wicket Takers Against Australia in ODIs

There is an intense rivalry between India and Australia on the cricket field. Whether it’s a test match or an ODI, these encounters are always packed with excitement. Over the years, these two cricketing giants have met in ODIs a staggering 143 times. While Australia may have the upper hand in terms of overall victories, India’s bowlers have proven themselves as formidable opponents by consistently taking wickets. In this listicle, we will delve into the bowlers who have taken the most ODI wickets for India against Australia.

Kapil Dev 

Kapil Dev, the iconic captain who led India to its first-ever World Cup victory in 1983, stands at the top of the list with the most ODI wickets against Australia. Between 1980 and 1994, Kapil Dev scalped 45 wickets in 41 matches, showcasing his exceptional skills as an all-rounder. His bowling style was characterized by pure seam bowling, occasionally garnished with subtle swing. The right-arm bowler from Haryana consistently troubled the Australian batsmen, and it’s worth noting that his best ODI bowling figures against Australia were 5 for 43 during the 1983 World Cup at Nottingham.

Ajit Agarkar

 Ajit Agarkar. (Photo Source: AFP)

Ajit Agarkar, a former speedster from Mumbai, claims the second position in this elite list. Making his ODI debut against Australia in 1998, Agarkar made an immediate impact, with Adam Gilchrist being his first prey. In 21 ODIs against Australia, he managed to capture 36 wickets at an impressive strike rate of 29.1. Agarkar was known for his ability to maintain a tight line and length, as evidenced by his miserly economy rate of 5.84.

Javagal Srinath 

 Javagal Srinath. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Javagal Srinath, a stalwart of the Indian bowling lineup from 1994 to 2003, secures the third position in terms of the highest ODI wicket-taker for India against Australia. Srinath’s effective pace and consistency troubled the Kangaroos both at home and overseas. He claimed 33 wickets in 29 games at an economical rate of 4.89 runs per over.

Harbhajan Singh 

 Harbhajan Singh. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Harbhajan Singh, one of India’s finest spin bowlers, occupies the fourth spot on this prestigious list. Despite being a terrific spinner, Harbhajan managed to take only 32 wickets in 35 outings against Australia. However, what sets him apart is his remarkable economy rate of 4.63, a testament to the charm of his bowling.

Irfan Pathan 

 Irfan Pathan. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Former Indian fast bowler Irfan Pathan earned his place among the elite by delivering standout performances against the mighty Australian batting lineup. Pathan made his One Day debut against Australia and took 10 wickets in just 5 matches. Known for his ability to move the ball both ways, the left-arm seamer ended his ODI career with 31 scalps in 24 matches against Australia.

The rivalry between India and Australia in ODI cricket has witnessed some unforgettable moments, with Indian bowlers often playing a pivotal role. From the legendary Kapil Dev to the modern-day hero Mohammad Shami, these bowlers have consistently risen to the occasion against the formidable Australian side.