Sunil Gavaskar’s Top 5 Records That Changed Indian Cricket Forever

Sunil Gavaskar is regarded as one of the most successful cricketers in the history of Indian cricket. A batting legend of his era, he was the biggest star of Indian cricket during his playing days.

Today marks Gavaskar's 76th birthday. He was born on 10 July 1949 in Mumbai. Throughout his historic career, Gavaskar created numerous remarkable records.

Let’s take a look at five of his greatest feats.

1. First Cricketer to Score 10,000 Runs in Test Cricket

Sunil Gavaskar is considered one of the finest batsmen in Test cricket history. In his era, he was the undisputed king of Indian Test batting. He holds the distinction of being the first player ever to reach 10,000 runs in Test cricket.

No one had achieved this milestone before him. The Little Master set this record during a match against Pakistan in March 1987.

2. Most Runs in a Debut Test Series

Gavaskar had a dream start to his Test career. He made his debut during the 1970–71 series against the West Indies.

Playing in 4 of the 5 matches, he amassed a total of 774 runs at an astonishing average of 154.80. He scored 4 centuries and 3 half-centuries, with his highest score being 220 runs. Even today, no debutant has managed to score as many runs in their first series.

3. First Indian to Take 100 Catches in Test Matches (as a fielder)

Gavaskar was not only a run-machine but also one of the most reliable fielders of his time.

He became the first Indian player to take 100 catches in Test cricket as a non-wicketkeeper. Although several Indian fielders have surpassed his tally since, Gavaskar was the first to achieve this significant milestone.

4. Fastest Indian to Reach 5000 Test Runs

A true cricketing superstar, Gavaskar still holds the record for being the fastest Indian to reach 5000 runs in Test cricket. No Indian batter has yet been able to break this record. In the list of fastest players to 5000 Test runs globally, Gavaskar ranks fourth, with only legends like Don Bradman ahead of him.

5. Most Test Centuries Against West Indies

The West Indies were the most fearsome side in the 1970s and 80s, with a bowling attack that terrorized even the best batters. Yet, Sunil Gavaskar always seemed to thrive against them. He holds the record for most Test centuries (13) against the West Indies — a mark that still remains untouched after decades.

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