A look at India's Test record at Eden Gardens, Kolkata
What's the story
India are set to play their first Test in six years at Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens on November 14. The last time they played a Test here was against Bangladesh in November 2019, which was also the famous pink-ball Test. Ahead of the highly anticipated clash against South Africa, have a look at India's overall record at this historic venue.
Test matches
India's overall Test record at Eden Gardens
India have played a total of 42 Test matches at Eden Gardens since their first encounter in 1934. Out of these, the home team has won 13 matches and lost nine (Drawn: 20). Their first victory came against England in the 1961/62 season by a margin of 187 runs. The last loss for India at this venue was way back in 2012 against England.
Batting records
Most runs for India at Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens has always been a favored ground for Indian batsmen. The black soil of the pitch provides an extra edge to home batters, enabling them to score heavily. VVS Laxman is the highest scorer at this venue with 1,217 runs from 10 matches at an average of 110. He is followed by Rahul Dravid, who scored 962 runs in nine matches here.
Bowling records
Most wickets for India at Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens has also been a happy hunting ground for spinners. Harbhajan Singh leads the list with 46 wickets in seven Tests, followed by Anil Kumble, who took 40 wickets, and Bishen Singh Bedi with 29 scalps. Notably, Harbhajan also took a historic hat-trick against Australia in the 2001 Kolkata Test. Among pacers, Kapil Dev found success here with 27 wickets to his name.
Recap
Iconic 2001 Kolkata Test
The 2001 Eden Gardens Test between India and Australia remains iconic. Following on, India were 274 runs behind before VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180) added 376 runs, turning the match around. Harbhajan took 13 wickets, including a hat-trick. India won by 171 runs, ending Australia's 16-match winning streak in Tests, marking one of cricket's greatest comebacks. It started a new dawn for Indian cricket.