ENG vs IND: Most 50+ scores by Indian openers in Tests in SENA countries

Test cricket in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) gives the toughest challenge to opening batsmen. Swinging and seaming conditions, along with bouncy pitches, need not just solid technique but also strong mental toughness to face the new ball and give a good start to the innings. For Indian openers, who are used to very different conditions at home, doing well regularly in SENA is a true sign of their class. In this article, we will look at the top 5 Indian openers with the most 50+ scores in SENA countries.

KL Rahul is only behind Sunil Gavaskar in the list of most 50+ scores by an Indian opener in SENA. Rahul continued his good form in overseas conditions, as the 33-year-old scored his tenth fifty-plus score in SENA in the second Test against England on July 5 (Saturday). After the early wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal on day three, Rahul made a very important partnership with Karun Nair early on day four.

After Nair got out for 26 runs off 46 balls, Rahul started playing attacking shots against the English bowlers. He played an aggressive shot through the gully area off Brydon Carse. While Shubman Gill started attacking from the other end, Rahul played smart cricket, rotating the strike and reaching his half-century with a classy drive through long-off.

Also Read -From IPL heroics to U-19 domination: Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashes 52-ball century against England

He completed his half-century in 78 balls. This was his fifth 50+ score in England, breaking the record of legendary batter Vijay Merchant. Rahul not only proved himself as one of India's best openers in England, but also in all SENA countries, as this was his tenth 50+ score there, going past Virender Sehwag’s record.

Most 50+ scores by Indian openers in SENA countries

Sunil Gavaskar (19)

Sunil Gavaskar is known as one of the best opening batsmen in the world. His record in SENA countries shows why he is a legend. He scored 50 or more runs 19 times in just 57 innings. He could play well in all kinds of conditions — fast pitches in the West Indies (not a SENA country, but still very tough), swing in England, and bounce in Australia. He did not just stay at the crease; he also scored many runs against top bowlers. His 50+ scores helped India start well in tough matches. He had great focus and knew how to leave good balls and hit the bad ones. His record is still one of the best for Indian openers.

KL Rahul (10)

KL Rahul scored his 10th fifty-plus score in SENA countries during the second Test against England on July 5. He has now surpassed Vijay. Rahul’s start in Test cricket was not always good, but he has improved with time. He can now play both carefully and with some attack when needed. He has scored fifties and hundreds in England, Australia, and South Africa. Like Vijay, he also made his 9 scores of 50+ in 42 innings, showing his growing success as an opener.

Most 50+ scores by Indian Openers in Tests in SENA countries:

Sunil Gavaskar - 19.

KL Rahul - 10*.

Murli Vijay - 9. pic.twitter.com/aianNKTDV8

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) July 5, 2025

 

Murali Vijay (9)

Murali Vijay was a calm and steady opening batsman. He had a strong defence and was good at waiting for the right ball to play. He did well in SENA countries, especially in England and Australia. He knew how to leave the swinging ball and play close to his body. Vijay scored 50 or more runs 9 times in 42 innings. This shows he gave India good starts many times in tough conditions.

Virender Sehwag (9)

Virender Sehwag was known for his attacking style. He liked to play fast and take on the bowlers. Even in tough SENA conditions, he scored 9 fifty-plus scores. His highest score in these places was 195 against Australia in 2003 at the MCG. Sehwag’s way was different—he did not wait too much. He played his shots and put pressure on the bowlers. Even though his style was risky, it helped India in many matches by giving a quick and strong start.

Gautam Gambhir (7)

Gautam Gambhir scored 50 or more runs 7 times in just 25 innings in SENA countries. He was a left-handed opener known for his fight and focus. Even though he played fewer innings than others on this list, he made a good impact. He had a good technique to face swings and bounces. His strong will helped India in many overseas matches. Today, he is the head coach of the Indian cricket team.

Most 50+ scores for an Indian opener in England in Tests

10 - Sunil Gavaskar

5 - KL Rahul

4 - Vijay Merchant