4 Indian batters to score 200 against South Africa in Tests

Cricket is a game that is played in almost every corner of the World now. Achieving a double century in the game of cricket is never an easy feat. Test cricket requires players to exhibit a perfect blend of technique, fitness, and endurance. This is why, compared to other formats, batters often find greater opportunities to score double or triple centuries in Test cricket.

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There have been several batters India batter who have achieved this feat in International Test cricket. Similarly, playing against South Africa is a different challenge altogether. Historically, the South African team is known for their brilliant bowling. Virat Kohli is the batter who has scored maximum double-centuries for India overall. Let us look at Indian batters who have scored double centuries against South Africa;

4. Rohit Sharma- 212 in Ranchi

Rohit Sharma's scintillating performance in the third Test against South Africa saw him scoring a dazzling 212 runs off 255 balls, featuring 28 fours and 6 sixes. This innings played a crucial role in India declaring at 497-9 in the first innings. Notably, Rohit's 212 is the fourth-highest score by an Indian batter against South Africa in Test matches.

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After scoring his first Test double century, Rohit joined the ranks of the 24th Indian batter to achieve this milestone of reaching the 200-run mark stylishly with a six off 249 balls. His outstanding contribution significantly bolstered India's commanding position in the match.

3. Mayank Agarwal- 215 in Visakhapatnam

In the first Test against South Africa, Mayank Agarwal scored his maiden double-century, reaching an impressive 215 off 371 balls. He also becomes the fourth Indian batter to convert a maiden Test century into a double ton. Opening alongside Rohit Sharma, they formed only the third Indian pair in history to add 300 for the opening wicket in a Test innings. 

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Agarwal's solid innings showcased his maturity, marking a significant arrival in the national squad. His remarkable partnership with Rohit Sharma reached 317 runs, demonstrating India's dominance in the ongoing 3-match series in Vizag. 

2. Virat Kohli- 254 in Pune

In the Test match against South Africa, Indian captain Virat Kohli showcased his batting prowess by scoring his seventh double-century, remaining unbeaten at 254 from 336 balls. India declared their first innings at 601 for 5, with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane contributing 59 and Ravindra Jadeja adding 91. This score is also the highest individual score for any Indian captain against South Africa and in a Test match.

Kohli's seventh double hundred surpassed Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar, making him the Indian batter with the most double centuries. Additionally, Kohli, with his ninth score of 150 plus, surpassed Don Bradman's record as the captain with the most 150-plus knocks in Test cricket, as Bradman had eight such scores in his illustrious career.

1. Virender Sehwag – 319 in Chennai

On March 28, 2008, Virender Sehwag made history by becoming the first Indian batter to score two triple centuries in Test cricket. He became the first Indian to score a double century against South Africa. In a remarkable innings against South Africa in Chennai, Sehwag's explosive batting led to a score of 319 runs off just 304 balls.

The former India opener showcased aggressive strokes, reaching his century with flair. Sehwag's remarkable pacing set a record for the fastest triple century in cricket history. The Chennai Test ended in a draw, with Sehwag rightfully awarded the Player of the Match. His innings were hailed as a masterpiece, with AB DeVilliers considering it the best test innings he had witnessed.