The story of India's 18 test home series dominance through its fearless bowling attack
India's historic 12-year undefeated streak in home Test series, which stretched from 2012 to 2024, was marked by exceptional teamwork and consistency. This streak ended when New Zealand claimed their maiden series win on Indian soil in Pune, marking India's first home series loss since 2012. Over the course of this winning streak, India played 18 Test series, claiming victory in 42 of the 53 matches contested, with seven draws and only four losses. This achievement surpasses any other nation, with South Africa holding the second-longest streak of 1,733 days unbeaten, ending in 2020. India's home advantage was characterised by an all-star bowling lineup led by formidable spinners and powerful pacers.
Ravichandran Ashwin has been a cornerstone of India's success in home conditions, dominating batters with his diverse spin arsenal. Between 2013 and 2024, he played 103 innings, capturing an astonishing 320 wickets with an average of 20.0. Known for his tactical intelligence, Ashwin has a record 24 five-wicket hauls in the winning streak. The off-spinner has 516 wickets in 100 matches, setting records as the fastest to reach 300 Test wickets. He also became the first Indian to secure a five-wicket haul both on debut and in his 100th Test. Ashwin's unique ability to adapt his spin and deceive batters has led to his ranking as one of the world's top bowlers, and he's proven invaluable with the bat, scoring centuries and taking fifers in three different matches.
Ravindra Jadeja, an exceptional all-rounder, has delivered crucial performances during India's unbeaten run. In 89 innings, he claimed 219 wickets at an impressive average of 20.4, including 11 five-wicket hauls. Known for his versatility, Jadeja's left-arm spin has consistently troubled opponents on India's spin-friendly tracks. His Test career began in 2012 and has seen him capture 294 wickets across 72 matches. Jadeja's standout performance of 7/42 against Australia in Delhi in 2023 remains memorable. His ability to contribute with the bat, crossing the 2,000-run mark and joining the 200-wicket club, underscores his skill set. Jadeja also set the record for the most Test wickets by an Indian left-arm spinner in a year, claiming 54 wickets in 2017, marking him as one of the finest all-rounders in Indian cricket.
Umesh Yadav, India's pace spearhead in home conditions, played a vital role with his pace and aggressive line. Across 54 innings, Yadav took 83 wickets with an average of 25.6, including two five-wicket hauls. His ability to generate speed even on India's traditionally spin-friendly pitches made him a crucial asset. Making his debut in 2011, Yadav quickly became a mainstay in India's Test setup, demonstrating his skills with the red ball. Over his 57-Test career, Yadav has collected 170 wickets and achieved three five-wicket hauls, becoming one of India's primary fast bowlers. His accuracy and raw pace allowed him to exploit the conditions effectively, supporting the spinners and offering variety to India's attack.
Mohammed Shami's mastery of seam and swing has made him one of India's most effective pacers. Across 42 innings, he took 76 wickets at an impressive average of 22.1, securing two five-wicket hauls in the winning streak. Known for his impeccable seam presentation, Shami has been a major threat to top-order batters. Since his debut in 2013, he has accumulated 229 wickets in 64 Tests. Shami's contribution to India's historic series win in Australia in 2018/19, where he claimed 16 wickets in four matches, highlights his importance in international cricket. Despite an injury during the 2020/21 tour, Shami's sharp skills and precision have made him a key figure in India's bowling arsenal.
Ishant Sharma, one of India's most experienced pacers, was instrumental during the streak. In his 45 innings, he took 49 wickets with an average of 30.2 and claimed one five-wicket haul. Known for his stamina and consistent pace, Ishant's career began in 2007, and he reached his peak during the 2014 Lord's Test, taking 7/74 to give India a memorable win. His career total of 311 wickets in 105 matches is a testament to his longevity and commitment. Even though Ishant last played a Test match in 2021, he remains a respected figure, valued for his ability to support spinners and maintain pressure with his disciplined bowling.