Predicted: The top 7 wicket-takers at the Women’s Cricket World Cup

Bowling has so often shaped the destiny of the Women’s World Cup. From Cathryn Fitzpatrick terrorising opponents in the 1990s to Jhulan Goswami’s record-breaking spells across two decades, the best attacks have invariably carried their teams deep into the tournament.

This year’s event, staged in Sri Lanka and India, again promises to reward the bowlers who can adapt quickly to conditions, exploit turn, reverse swing, and the sometimes-fickle bounce of subcontinental pitches.

Several names stand out as candidates to finish among the leading wicket-takers. They include seasoned veterans with vast tournament pedigree and younger players breaking through on the global stage.

Here are seven bowlers we are backing to dominate the wicket charts at the 2025 Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka

1. Marizanne Kapp (South Africa)

• Tournament prediction: 15 wickets

Few players bring the mix of experience and cutting edge that Marizanne Kapp offers South Africa. Ranked sixth all-time in ODI wickets, she requires only a dozen more scalps to become the leading wicket taker in Women’s World Cup history.

Kapp has a proven track record on subcontinental pitches, with 35 wickets at just over 20 in India and Sri Lanka and has consistently delivered across previous tournaments – 13 wickets in 2017 and 12 in 2022.

Her ability to strike with the new ball and return later for key breakthroughs makes her the heartbeat of South Africa’s attack.

2. Megan Schutt (Australia)

• Tournament prediction: 14 wickets

Australia’s veteran seamer has long been a banker in major tournaments. With 27 World Cup wickets at an average of 21.37, Megan Schutt is within touching distance of Jhulan Goswami’s record tally.

She thrives on pressure, famously striking twice in the first over of the 2022 final against England, and conditions in India suit her skiddy, accurate swing.

Schutt’s consistency, allied to her habit of striking early, makes her a strong candidate to top the wicket charts – and perhaps write herself into the record books in the process.

3. Lea Tahuhu (New Zealand)

• Tournament prediction: 12 wickets

The spearhead of New Zealand’s attack for over a decade, Lea Tahuhu remains a proven threat at the highest level.

Sixteenth on the all-time Women’s World Cup wicket list, she began her 2025 campaign by dismantling Australia with figures of 3 for 42, showing once more her ability to rise in marquee contests.

Tall, brisk, and relentlessly competitive, Tahuhu’s knack of breaking partnerships will be vital for a New Zealand side that often leans heavily on her firepower. If the White Ferns make progress, expect Tahuhu’s name to be near the top of the wicket tally.

Also read: Women’s Cricket World Cup: 10 milestones and memories

4. Ellyse Perry (Australia)

• Tournament prediction: 10 wickets

Though increasingly celebrated for her batting feats, Ellyse Perry remains one of the most reliable seamers in the women’s game. Ranked 11th in all-time World Cup wickets, she has long combined sharp new-ball spells with canny variations at the death.

Perry’s longevity and tournament know-how – she has featured in every World Cup since 2009 – ensure she remains central to Australia’s title defence.

With Schutt taking the spotlight, Perry could thrive in a supporting role, chipping away with crucial wickets throughout the group stage.

5. Kranti Gaud (India)

• Tournament prediction: 9 wickets

At just 22, Kranti Gaud already looks like the next great Indian seamer. Her 6 for 52 against England at Chester-le-Street announced her arrival, the best figures by an Indian woman against that opposition.

Recent wickets against Australia further confirmed her quality. India will rely heavily on their spinners in home conditions, but Gaud’s ability to unsettle top orders with pace and movement could provide the difference in crunch games.

A breakthrough World Cup campaign would surprise few.

6. Lauren Bell (England)

• Tournament prediction: 9 wickets

Lauren Bell is the youngest specialist bowler in England’s squad, but she already plays with the authority of a seasoned campaigner.

Her height and bounce make her a difficult proposition, even on flat pitches, and she impressed with 2 for 18 in a T20 against India in Mumbai late in 2023.

This is Bell’s first World Cup, and while adapting to subcontinental conditions will be a challenge, her natural attributes give England’s attack variety and bite. If she finds rhythm early, she could trouble any lineup.

7. Nashra Sandhu (Pakistan)

• Tournament prediction: 8 wickets

Left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu enters this World Cup in sparkling form. Only a week before the tournament she produced career-best figures of 6 for 26 against South Africa in Lahore, moving past the 100-wicket milestone.

It was a reminder of her potency after a quiet run of matches, and Pakistan will need her to reproduce that control and guile on turning pitches.

With batters often seeking to attack Pakistan’s spinners, Sandhu’s ability to maintain discipline and induce mistakes could see her emerge as one of the leading wicket-takers.

Read next: Women’s Cricket World Cup predictions – Top 7 run-scorers

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England stroll to 10-wicket victory after demolishing South Africa for 69

England stroll to 10-wicket victory after demolishing South Africa for 69

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The ultimate England Ashes XI: Would this team beat Australia’s best?

England’s cricketing history is defined by grit, resilience, and unforgettable Ashes moments.

This all-time Ashes XI brings together the finest batters, bowlers, and all-rounders who shaped England’s legacy, from the resolute opening walls to fearless match-winners in the middle order.

Across home pitches and hostile Australian tracks, these legends provided leadership, adaptability, and game-changing performances, making this team a tribute to the players who consistently delivered when the Ashes stakes were at their highest.

Cricket365’s greatest England Ashes XI of all time:

1. Alistair Cook

• Ashes runs: 2493
• Ashes batting average: 40.20
• Ashes centuries: 5

Cook was one of England’s most dependable openers and captains across continents.

His ability to anchor innings in tough away conditions, particularly in Australia, provided stability at the top.

Beyond runs, Cook’s resilience allowed middle-order players to bat around him, making him the cornerstone of England’s batting for over a decade.

2. Geoffrey Boycott

• Ashes runs: 2579
• Ashes batting average: 46.05
• Ashes centuries: 6

Boycott epitomised gritty, grind-it-out batting in Ashes series, particularly away from home.

His patience and technique frustrated Australian attacks, giving England the chance to build an innings.

Boycott’s presence was as much about occupying the crease and blunting bowlers as it was about scoring centuries.

3. Wally Hammond

• Ashes runs: 2852
• Ashes batting average: 51.85
• Ashes centuries: 9

Hammond’s consistency and flair were crucial in England’s dominance during the war era.

He was the player the team could rely on to deliver under pressure in hostile conditions, often turning matches with big innings at critical moments.

His calm authority made him central to England’s batting strategy.

4. Joe Root

• Ashes runs: 2428*
• Ashes batting average: 40.46
• Ashes centuries: 4

Root has been England’s technical and psychological anchor in the modern era, capable of performing at a scintillating level at home despite his record down under being below his weighty standards.

His adaptability to different pitches and ability to score both quickly and patiently allowed England to control the innings.

Root’s leadership qualities also helped stabilise the team in challenging series.

5. Kevin Pietersen

• Ashes runs: 2158
• Ashes batting average: 44.95
• Ashes centuries: 4

Pietersen’s importance lay in his ability to shift momentum with audacious, match-defining innings, which were at the forefront in England’s famous 2005 win and particularly away from home.

He thrived under pressure in hostile Australian conditions and gave England a mental statement and edge.

Pietersen’s fearless style made him a crucial Ashes asset who often hit the Australians with their own game.

6. Ian Botham

• Ashes runs: 1486
• Ashes batting average: 29.13
• Ashes wickets: 128
• Ashes batting average: 28.04

Botham’s dual role as a bowler and destructive lower-order batter made him invaluable.

His heroics in both home and away series often changed the course of games.

Beyond numbers, his leadership and presence on the field inspired teammates, and his performances in clutch situations became legendary in Ashes folklore.

7. Alec Stewart

• Ashes runs: 1810
• Ashes batting average: 30.67
• Ashes centuries: 1

Stewart combined wicketkeeping with aggressive batting, often providing balance to the side.

His ability to contribute consistently with the bat in varying conditions and handle leadership duties in the dressing room made him a key figure in stabilising England’s line-ups across Ashes tours.

8. Graeme Swann

• Ashes wickets: 62
• Ashes bowling average: 39.98
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 3

Swann’s off-spin offered England a potent option in conditions that rarely favoured spinners.

His knack for taking crucial wickets in tight moments, especially in England, disrupted Australian batting plans.

Swann’s accuracy and intelligence made him a tactical weapon, particularly on turning tracks in an era where England were very much in a rebuild phase.

9. Stuart Broad

• Ashes wickets: 153
• Ashes bowling average: 28.96
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 8

Broad’s ability to take wickets in bursts, particularly in home Ashes, often tilted matches in England’s favour.

His height and bounce troubled Australian batsmen, and his consistency in pairing with Anderson created one of the most feared bowling duos in Ashes history.

Broad’s knack for performing in key moments was vital – let’s not forget his dominance bowling to David Warner and Australian left-handers.

10. Bob Willis

• Ashes wickets: 123
• Ashes bowling average: 24.37
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 7

Willis was England’s fast-bowling spearhead, combining pace, aggression, and accuracy.

His wickets often came at crucial points to break partnerships, and his intimidation factor both at home and away unsettled Australian batsmen.

Willis provided the kind of match-turning impact every Ashes-winning side needs.

11. James Anderson

• Ashes wickets: 117
• Ashes bowling average: 35.97
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 5

Anderson’s mastery of swing, seam, and control made him a nightmare for Australian batters in English conditions.

Beyond stats, his experience and ability to lead the bowling attack in tandem with Broad ensured England always had a potent, strategic threat.

His longevity added stability across multiple Ashes cycles.

READ MORE: The 7 most successful Ashes glovemen – we’re talking pure wicketkeeping, not wicketkeeper-batters

 

 

 

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International League T20 player auction – best $$$ value, biggest overall spend and finalised squads

We need to talk about the International League T20’s inaugural player auction.

The tournament has been going on for a few years, but hosted its first auction recently.

From Scott Currie’s big price and Ravichandran Ashwin’s withdrawal and more, this is one well worth reflecting on.

1. MI Emirates: USD 1,868,000 total spend

Well versed in player auctions, the MI management didn’t come to play at this particular auction – they meant business from the first raise of the paddle and spent the most at the event.

The juggernaut that also owns the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, MI New York in MLC in the USA and MI Cape Town in the SA20 paid the biggest price of the day for West Indies big-hitter Andre Fletcher.

After retaining their top wicket-taker from the previous season, Fazalhaq Farooqi, MI Emirates weren’t going to leave their best bowler without solid support – and gladly coughed up more for Afghanistan seamer Naveen-ul-Haq. They also threw Shakib Al Hasan into the mix.

Auction signings

1. Andre Fletcher (USD 260,000)
2. Muhammad Rohid (USD 140,000)
3. Jordan Thompson (USD 48,000)
4. Shakib Al Hasan (USD 40,000)
5. Naveen-ul-Haq (USD 100,000)
6. Nosthush Kenjige (USD 10,000)
7. Mohamed Shafeeq (USD 10,000)
8. Zain Ul Abidin (USD 10,000)
9. Usman Khan (USD 10,000)
10. Ackeem Auguste (USD 10,000)
11. Arab Gul (USD 10,000)
12. Tajinder Dhillon (USD 10,000)
13. Zahoor Khan (USD 10,000)

Retentions and pre-auction signings

• Fazalhaq Farooqi
• Tom Banton
• Romario Shepherd
• Chris Woakes
• Jonny Bairstow
• AM Ghazanfar
• Muhammad Waseem
• Kamindu Mendis

2. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: USD 1,457,000 total spend

The Abu Dhabi team in the ILT20 haven’t yet come close to the level of success achieved by the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. Abu Dhabi, indeed, are still in pursuit of a maiden title.

Looking at the tactical composition of their auction approach, though, this could be their year to go all the way. Brandon McMullen was their only six-figure purchase this time – and the star Scotland batsman evidently has the backing to go big.

It’s going to be highly interesting to see if Andre Russell and Sunil Narine, who were signed before the auction, stick around for the play-offs if Abu Dhabi get that for. They’ve been signed in the SA20, too. The start of that tournament coincides with the end of the ILT20.

Auction signings

1. Brandon McMullen (USD 110,000)
2. Michael Pepper (USD 40,000)
3. Unmukt Chand (USD 40,000)
4. Ibrar Ahmed (USD 22,000)
5. George Garton (USD 10,000)
6. Ajay Kumar (USD 10,000)
7. Adnan Idrees Muhammad (USD 10,000)
8. Abdul Manan Ali (USD 10,000)
9. Mayank Chowdary (USD 10,000)
10. Khary Pierre (USD 10,000)
11. Shadley Van Schalkwyk (USD 10,000)

Retentions and pre-auction signings

• Liam Livingstone
• Alishan Sharafu
• Alex Hales
• Sherfane Rutherford
• Sunil Narine
• Andre Russell
• Phil Salt
• Olly Stone

3. Desert Vipers: USD 1,617,500 total spend

The Desert Vipers, also looking for their first ILT20 title, had the most composed player auction. They were calm throughout, methodically pushing for plan A, but were happy to fall back on plan B and C.

They effectively spilt USD 240,000 across three players, walking away with a sound balance of fast bowling and big hitting across Tom Bruce, Fakhar Zaman and Naseem Shah.

Because of their clever spend, they were also able to bolster their batting ranks with Tawanda Muyeye and add to their spin resources with Qais Ahmad. An exemplary way to handle a player auction, for sure.

Auction signings

1. Tom Bruce (USD 80,000)
2. Fakhar Zaman (USD 80,000)
3. Naseem Shah (USD 80,000)
4. Tawanda Muyeye (USD 40,000)
5. Hasan Nawaz (USD 40,000)
6. Qais Ahmad (USD 40,000)
7. Sanjay Pahal (USD 10,000)
8. Bilal Tahir (USD 10,000)
9. Faisal Khan (USD 10,000)
10. Vriitya Aravind (USD 10,000)
11. Matiullah Khan (USD 10,000)
12. Faridoon Dawoodzai (USD 10,000)

Retentions and pre-auction signings

• Dan Lawrence
• Max Holden
• David Payne
• Khuzaima Bin Tanveer
• Lockie Ferguson
• Wanindu Hasaranga
• Sam Curran
• Andries Gous

Also read – Rated: 5 best buys and 5 most surprising discards at International League T20 player auction

4. Dubai Capitals: USD 1,475,000 total spend

Allow us to introduce you to what will likely be the team with the most effective bowling attack during season four of the International League T20, thanks almost solely to the expensive acquisition of Scott Currie.

First noticed in Scotland before gaining popularity in England, Currie is on the brink of big things. He is one of the finest T20 cricket seamers at the moment – this is his hour.

The Capitals have been there, done that. They now what’s required to win the title and are gunning for a successful title defence here. Currie and Tymal Mills in tandem is a hugely enticing prospect.

Auction signings

1. Scott Currie (USD 250,000)
2. Tymal Mills (USD 80,000)
3. Mohammad Nabi (USD 80,000)
4. Farhan Khan (USD 10,000)
5. Anudeep Chenthamara (USD 10,000)
6. Usman Najeeb (USD 10,000)
7. Ritesh Mallikarjuna Grandhi (USD 10,000)
8. Muhammad Farooq (USD 10,000)
9. Shayan Jahangir (USD 10,000)
10. Rushil Ugarkar (USD 10,000)
11. Naveen Bidiasee (USD 10,000)
12. Toby Albert (USD 10,000)
13. Akshay Wakhare (USD 10,000)

Retentions and pre-auction signings

• Jordan Cox
• Rovman Powell
• Gulbadin Naib
• Sediqullah Atal
• Waqar Salamkheil
• Haider Ali
• Muhammad Jawadullah
• Jimmy Neesham

5. Gulf Giants: USD 1,471,000 total spend

Here’s a team who had the widest range of spend, dropping a few USD 10,000 purchases alongside the biggest of USD 170,000 and everything in between. The biggest benefactor of this? England’s Liam Dawson.

Left-arm spinners who can bat are popular picks in domestic T20 league and another gig for Dawson is testament to that. There will be a lot of pressure on him to deliver the goods.

The Giants didn’t really push for any outright stars during the auction, as they had already pre-signed James Vince and Mooen Ali prior. There’s evident England influence to the composition of their squad.

Auction signings

1. Liam Dawson (USD 170,000)
2. Haider Razzaq (USD 50,000)
3. Tabraiz Shamsi (USD 40,000)
4. Fred Klaassen (USD 40,000)
5. Chris Wood (USD 40,000)
6. Tom Moores (USD 40,000)
7. Ramon Simmonds (USD 40,000)
8. Asif Khan (USD 26,000)
9. Ishtiaq Ahmad (USD 16,000)
10. Meet Bhavsar (USD 14,000)
11. Lorcan Tucker (USD 10,000)
12. Zuhaib Zubair (USD 10,000)
13. Sean Dickson (USD 10,000)

Retentions and pre-auction signings

• Aayan Afzal Khan
• Mark Adair
• Gerhard Erasmus
• Blessing Muzarabani
• Moeen Ali
• James Vince
• Azmatullah Omarzai
• Rahmanullah Gurbaz

6. Sharjah Warriorz: USD 1,664,000 total spend

Sharjah dragged Dinesh Karthik out of semi-retirement shortly before the player auction. It must have taken some convincing, but they’ve ensured he won’t be going it alone – as was the case in the IPL time and time again – by beefing up their batting resources.

They have somewhat of a has-been international cricketer in Dwaine Pretorius, who is still valuable with bat and ball at domestic level. The signing of hotrod West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales is exciting.

The whole auction started rather quietly, but picked up when Junaid Siddique’s name came up. After a bidding war, the Warriorz finally got him. For their effort, they’ll want maximum value out of him as soon as the tournament starts.

Auction signings

1. Junaid Siddique (USD 170,000)
2. Dwaine Pretorius (USD 120,000)
3. Nathan Sowter (USD 100,000)
4. Taskin Ahmed (USD 80,000)
5. Jayden Seales (USD 80,000)
6. Wasim Akram (USD 55,000)
7. Mohamed Aslam (USD 14,000)
8. James Rew (USD 10,000)
9. Harmeet Singh (USD 10,000)
10. Raees Ahmad (USD 10,000)
11. Richard Ngarava (USD 10,000)
12. Shubham Ranjane (USD 10,000)
13. Ethan D’Souza (USD 10,000)
14. Abdul Salman Khan (USD 10,000)

Retentions and pre-auction signings

• Dinesh Karthik
• Sikandar Raza
• Tom Kohler-Cadmore
• Tim David
• Johnson Charles
• Tim Southee
• Saurabh Netravalkar

Read next: 9 of the biggest exclusions from SA20 player auction purchases

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Women’s Cricket World Cup predictions: The top 7 run-scorers – Beth Mooney to star

The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 is here, with India and Sri Lanka hosting what promises to be one of the most competitive editions in the tournament’s history.

Batting depth across the participating nations has never looked stronger, with several players coming into the competition in imperious form.

The prize for finishing as the top run scorer is more than just an individual accolade, it often goes hand-in-hand with carrying a team deep into the knockout stages.

From seasoned stars with proven records on the world stage to rising talents making their mark, here are seven batters most likely to dominate the run charts.

1. Smriti Mandhana (India)

• Tournament prediction: 650+ runs

It is difficult to look beyond India’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana as a leading contender for tournament top scorer. Sitting atop the ICC ODI batting rankings, she has enjoyed a prolific 2025, scoring three centuries and three half-centuries in just 13 innings.

Her consistency is remarkable; she averages over 60 this year, and she has shown she can deliver against the toughest opponents, including a match-winning 117 against Australia in September.

Mandhana’s fluent stroke play and ability to adapt to conditions make her India’s batting lynchpin, and with home crowds behind her, she will be expected to pile on the runs.

2. Beth Mooney (Australia)

• Tournament prediction: 600+ runs

Australia’s top order has no shortage of match-winners, but Beth Mooney stands out as their most reliable run machine. She has reached double figures in every ODI this year, a testament to her ability to weather pressure and anchor innings.

Mooney’s joint second-fastest women’s ODI century against India in New Chandigarh underlined her explosiveness when required, while her fifty against England in Hobart highlighted her versatility.

Australia’s dominance in global tournaments has often been underpinned by their batters racking up big totals, and Mooney looks primed to continue that tradition.

Also read: Women’s Cricket World Cup: 10 milestones and memories

3. Nat Sciver-Brunt (England)

• Tournament prediction: 550+ runs

England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has built her reputation on being her team’s most dependable batter in moments of crisis. Ranked second in the ICC ODI charts, Sciver-Brunt combines composure with power, often accelerating just when her side needs it most.

She already has four half-centuries this year and will no doubt be central to England’s push in subcontinental conditions. While she doesn’t always open, her presence in the middle order ensures she gets plenty of time at the crease.

If England are to challenge for the trophy, Sciver-Brunt’s bat will almost certainly be leading the way.

4. Tazmin Britz (South Africa)

• Tournament prediction: 500+ runs

South Africa arrive at the World Cup with high hopes, and few players are in better touch than opener Tazmin Britz.

Fresh from back-to-back centuries against Pakistan in a warm-up series, Britz has timed her peak form perfectly. Known for her aggressive intent and ability to dominate the powerplay, she gives South Africa the kind of starts that set the tone for big totals.

While her teammate Marizanne Kapp provides experience in the middle order, Britz’s recent purple patch suggests she could emerge as one of the breakout stars of the tournament. If she maintains her current rhythm, she will be difficult to stop.

5. Sidra Amin (Pakistan)

• Tournament prediction: 450+ runs

Consistency has been the hallmark of Sidra Amin’s 2025. In just seven ODIs this year, she has passed fifty in the majority of her innings, including back-to-back scores of 121* and 122 against South Africa.

At 33, she brings both experience and composure to Pakistan’s batting line-up, often acting as the glue around which others can build. Her ability to convert starts into substantial scores is exactly what Pakistan need in order to progress deep into the competition.

Amin has quietly become one of the most effective openers in the women’s game, and the World Cup stage gives her the perfect platform to prove it.

6. Suzie Bates (New Zealand)

• Tournament prediction: 400+ runs

Few players can match the pedigree of New Zealand veteran Suzie Bates. A stalwart of the White Ferns’ set-up, Bates enters this World Cup as the fifth-highest run scorer in the tournament’s history, with 1,311 runs across multiple editions.

Her experience in big tournaments and her ability to adapt to varying conditions make her invaluable. Though Georgia Plimmer has emerged as a rising force for New Zealand, Bates’ sheer weight of runs over nearly two decades ensures she cannot be overlooked.

She might not be as explosive as in her prime, but her nous, shot selection and game awareness mean she remains one of the most likely candidates to top the run charts.

7. Harshitha Samarawickrama (Sri Lanka)

• Tournament prediction: 350+ runs

The batting hopes of joint hosts Sri Lanka will rest heavily on Harshitha Samarawickrama, who has been her side’s most consistent performer over the past year.

With four half-centuries in 2025, including a decisive 77 against South Africa, Samarawickrama has shown she can stand up against higher-ranked opposition.

At 27, she is entering her peak years and will relish the chance to perform in front of home crowds during the Sri Lankan leg of the competition. While Sri Lanka may not be favourites, players like Samarawickrama can swing matches with their resilience and timing.

If she strings together a series of strong innings, she could emerge as one of the surprise packages among the leading run scorers.

Read next: The perfect Test cricketer based on best drive, best defence and 7 other important features

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Ranked: The top 9 batters in the longstanding Test rivalry between India and West Indies

The West Indies are in India for a two Test series. The men from the Caribbean arrive under severe pressure having just lost a T20I series against Nepal and, before that, being dismissed for the second lowest score in the history of Test cricket.

But it hasn’t always been this tough for the Windies, who have enjoyed many strong performances against India in the past.

As the two sides prepare to face each other in Ahmedabad and Delhi, let’s take a moment to look at which batsmen have scored the most runs in series between these two nations.

What makes for very interesting reading is the fact that big names like Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara and Virat Kohli do not make it into the top nine.

1. Sunil Gavaskar (India)

• Span: 1971-1983
• Innings: 48
• Runs: 2749
• High score: 236 not out
• Average: 65.45

No batsman is more synonymous with India versus West Indies cricket than Sunil Gavaskar. The original “Little Master” first announced himself to the world in the 1971 tour of the Caribbean, scoring four centuries in his debut series.

Against a West Indies side boasting the likes of Garry Sobers and Rohan Kanhai, Gavaskar displayed remarkable temperament and technique.

He went on to dominate their bowlers for over a decade, piling up 13 centuries in total against them, more than any other batsman has managed in these contests.

His highest score of 236* in Chennai in 1983 was a masterclass in patience and precision. Gavaskar’s success laid the foundation for India’s belief that they could stand up to the mighty Caribbean sides.

2. Clive Lloyd (West Indies)

• Span: 1966-1983
• Innings: 44
• Runs: 2344
• High score: 242 not out
• Average: 58.60

The West Indies’ iconic leader Clive Lloyd was every bit as destructive against India as he was against the rest of the cricketing world. His towering presence at the crease and his ability to dictate terms made him a nightmare for Indian bowlers through the 1970s.

Lloyd’s most famous innings against India came in Mumbai in 1974, when he scored a brutal 242* to set up a dominant win. Over nearly two decades of contests, Lloyd’s consistency was extraordinary.

More than just a run scorer, he embodied the swagger of West Indies cricket, often breaking Indian resistance with sheer power.

3. Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies)

• Span: 1994-2013
• Innings: 44
• Runs: 2171
• High score: 140
• Average: 63.85

Few players could make batting look as awkward yet be as effective as Shivnarine Chanderpaul. His crab-like stance belied an unflinching determination, and against India he was relentless.

From his debut series in the mid-1990s right through to his twilight years, Chanderpaul was a thorn in India’s side. He made runs in both home and away conditions, using patience and concentration to blunt Indian spinners while pouncing on anything loose.

His highest score of 140 in Bridgetown in 1997 was a reminder of his ability to anchor an innings. Chanderpaul’s average of 63.85 against India is one of the finest in bilateral Test history.

Chanderpaul’s son, Tagenarine, will be hoping to emulate his father’s run scoring in the upcoming series as he has been named in the Windies squad.

Also read: Rated: 5 of the biggest upsets in international cricket of all time

4. Rahul Dravid (India)

• Span: 1997-2011
• Innings: 38
• Runs: 1978
• High score: 146
• Average: 63.80

Nicknamed “The Wall,” Rahul Dravid built his reputation on being immovable at the crease, and against West Indies he was at his most obdurate.

In the Caribbean in 2002, Dravid carried India’s batting with scores of 100* and 144 in Jamaica and Georgetown, respectively, leading India to their first-ever Test series win on West Indian soil.

He was equally dependable at home, compiling runs with his trademark balance and calm. Dravid’s tally of five centuries against the West Indies was built on technical mastery and a mental resilience that allowed him to absorb pressure before turning the screw.

5. Viv Richards (West Indies)

• Span: 1974-1989
• Innings: 41
• Runs: 1927
• High score: 192 not out
• Average: 50.71

No list of West Indies greats would be complete without Sir Isaac Vivian Alexander Richards. Swaggering to the crease with an aura of dominance, Richards often treated Indian bowling with disdain.

His highest score of 192* in Delhi in 1976 came in a series where he amassed 582 runs at an average of 145. Richards’ ability to counter spin and pace alike meant India rarely had answers when he was in full flow.

Beyond the runs, it was the manner in which he scored them, fearless and authoritative, that left an indelible mark on India–West Indies contests. With eight centuries to his name the only person on this list with more triple-figure scores, is Gavaskar.

6. Garry Sobers (West Indies)

• Span: 1958-1971
• Innings: 30
• Runs: 1920
• High score: 198
• Average: 83.47

Garry Sobers was cricket’s ultimate allrounder, and against India his batting was simply imperious.

Across 18 matches, he scored 1920 runs at a staggering average of 83.47, the highest on this list (although Sir Everton Weekes who made fewer runs in total got his with an average of 106.78).

His versatility allowed him to adapt to any situation: he could grind out runs when the team was in trouble or play attacking strokes to accelerate an innings.

Sobers’ 198 in Kanpur in 1958 remains one of the most elegant innings ever played in India by a visiting batsman. For much of the 1960s, India simply had no answer to his genius.

7. VVS Laxman (India)

• Span: 1997-2011
• Innings: 36
• Runs: 1715
• High score: 176 not out
• Average: 57.16

The silky wrists of VVS Laxman produced some of the most memorable strokes against the West Indies. Laxman always seemed to find an extra gear against Caribbean opposition, scoring five centuries and nine fifties in just 18 matches.

His unbeaten 176 in Kolkata in 2011 was one of his finest knocks, blending patience with effortless timing.

Laxman’s ability to dominate spinners and fast bowlers alike made him invaluable in India-West Indies clashes, often rescuing India from difficult positions.

His calm under pressure and knack for turning matches made him one of the standout performers of his era.

8. Rohan Kanhai (West Indies)

• Span: 1958-1971
• Innings: 28
• Runs: 1693
• High score: 256
• Average: 62.70

Before Richards and Lloyd, there was Rohan Kanhai, the elegant stroke-maker whose unorthodox yet stylish batting thrilled spectators.

Against India, Kanhai was prolific, scoring a double century in Kolkata in 1958 and following it with several match-winning contributions.

His highest score of 256 in Calcutta (as it was then called) remains one of the finest innings by a West Indian in India. Kanhai’s career spanned the transition of West Indies from an emerging side to a dominant force, and his consistency against India underlined his class.

9. Gordon Greenidge (West Indies)

• Span: 1974-1989
• Innings: 39
• Runs: 1678
• High score: 194
• Average: 47.94

Opening the batting against India was rarely straightforward, but Gordon Greenidge’s aggression at the top of the order gave West Indies early dominance.

His 194 in Chennai in 1983 was a brutal innings, mixing power with patience as he dismantled India’s attack.

Greenidge often set the tone for West Indies victories with his partnerships alongside Desmond Haynes, and his runs were vital in maintaining their supremacy during the 1980s.

While his average is lower than others on this list, the impact of his innings was immense.

Read next: Rated: The 7 most underrated all-rounders of all-time

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Rated: 5 best buys and 5 most surprising discards at International League T20 player auction

What happened during 1 October 2025’s International League T20 player auction?

This is the first time the tournament has had a player auction.

Several big names were bought or overlooked.

Who landed big deals?

1. Andre Fletcher: $260,000

Who doesn’t love a bit of ‘The Spiceman’ Andre Fletcher? MI Emirates certainly do and coughed up $260,000 for the West Indian big-hitter, who has plenty of experience during those pivotal opening powerplays when the field is dead set and ripe for sixes.

The team, which is part of the global behemoth that also owns MI Cape Town in the SA20, MI New York in Major League Cricket and Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League, want to go all the way again and add to their 2024 ILT20 title. The purchase of Fletcher is a big boost for this.

2. Jordan Thompson: $48,000

We need to talk about Jordan Thompson. Or get left behind. Not yet a graduate to international cricket, Thompson is making a splash at domestic level.

Unfortunate not to get a gig at the SA20, where his name was hot on the lips of a few suitors, Thompson’s ship came in during the ILT20 player auction. He’ll be with MI Emirates as well for $48,000.

Anticipate plenty of big hits from the Yorkshire and Southern Brave all-rounder, who is a handy asset with the ball as well – and has experience in the Pakistan Super League.

3. Jayden Seales: $80,000

Never underestimate the value of specialist bowlers and outright pace in T20 cricket. It’s not all about big-hitting batter, ladies and gentlemen.

The Sharjah Warriorz got this sentiment spot on when they threw $80,000 at Jayden Seales. The West Indies will be challenged by batting-friendly conditions in the UAE, but is among the few bowlers who really know how to extract what’s needed from flat wickets.

4. Liam Dawson: $170,000

“Flight, turn, deception – simply the whole package,” announced the International League T20, as the Gulf Giants nabbed Liam Dawson for $170,000.

Whether this ceases to amaze you or flatters to deceive, we are consistently baffled by Dawson’s ability to prolong his popularity. He’s won an SA20 title with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, he’s earned an England recall after several years in the wilderness – and will now get a go in the UAE with the former champions in the ILT20.

5. Brandon McMullen: $110,000

A tip of the proverbial hat to the Associate nations here. They have increasing representation on the biggest stages with every domestic T20 league these days.

A field previously dominated by big names in small nations such as Rashid Khan now features Brandon McMullen and many others. Ireland’s Josh Little didn’t crack the nod for this one, but Scotland’s hard-hitting McMullen sure did to the tune of $110,000 for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

Who knows? This could even lead to a sweet deal with the Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League next year. Time will tell. Patience is key. Etc.

Also read: Rated: 5 of the biggest upsets in international cricket of all time

Who went unsold?

1. Ravichandran Ashwin: $0

India‘s Ravichandra Ashwin and England’s James Anderson were among the biggest names to go unsold. Ashwin, who is no longer contracted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India, fetched a deal with the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League in Australia recently.

But his popularity in domestic T20 leagues has stopped there for now. Nobody wanted him during the ILT20 player auction – the legendary Indian spinner and underrated all-rounder did not get a single bid.

Several base prices of $10,000 came and went, but Ashwin’s minimum fee of 12 times that amount was just too rich for any of the franchises’ pockets. Next time, mate, next time. Maybe.

2. James Anderson: $0

England‘s James Anderson also went unsold. The same happened to him last month, when he put his hand up for involvement in South Africa’s SA20. Interest in England’s greatest Test wicket-takers is lacking at T20 level.

This, indeed, could be the very end of the England great’s playing career. He has flirted with an extended stay with gigs in the T20 Blast and The Hundred, but runways is running out for the 43-year-old.

3. Shakib Al Hasan: $0

Another big name that went unsold at the ILT20 player auction was Shakib Al Hasan. There’s a pattern developing for the Bangladesh all-rounder, who was top billing for the SA20 auction but ultimately wasn’t even mentioned during the event.

Capable of winning matches almost singlehandedly with bat or ball, Al Hasan is prone to injury lately and doesn’t seem as committed to the cause as much as he used to be. Franchises are evidently picking up on this when overlooking him.

4. Temba Bavuma: $0

Spare a thought, if you would, for Temba Bavuma. South Africa‘s Test and ODI captain must be finding it hard to ward off a complex about not being good enough on the international stage.

Yes, he has won a World Test Championship title, which will bring its own riches, but unlikely at the level offered by big paydays in the United Arab Emirates. Bavuma, too, didn’t get a deal at the SA20 player auction last month. Moving along swiftly, then.

5. David Wiese: $0

Dare we suggest this or that franchise missed a trick in not going for David Wiese? The cosmopolitan all-rounder has international experience for two countries – South Africa and Namibia – and is a household name on the global T20 circuit.

Wiese was in the Caribbean Premier League recently and – get this – has played more than 400 T20s at professional level. You can’t buy that level of experience. Actually, you can, but nobody did this time.

Read next: Rated: The 7 most underrated all-rounders of all-time

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