When we talk about the India vs England Test series, we often remember the centuries, the five-wicket hauls, and the match-winning moments from iconic stars. But behind every celebrated victory lies a set of performances that don't always grab headlines—yet were crucial to the outcome. These underrated contributions often came in pressure situations, setting the stage for turning points in matches or series.
Let's take a moment to shine the spotlight on some of the most underrated performances in IND vs ENG Test history—efforts that deserve more recognition than they've received.
1. Ajit Agarkar's Century at Lord's (2002)
Why it's underrated:
Agarkar was better known for his pace bowling—and for his infamous string of ducks against Australia. So when he scored a fluent 109* at the iconic Lord's in 2002, it came as a shock. While India lost the Test, Agarkar's knock was full of grace, resilience, and sheer determination.
Why it mattered:
His innings was the only century by an Indian in that match and kept the team's pride intact in a tough game. It also proved he had far more batting ability than he was credited for.
2. Parthiv Patel's Grit in the 2002 Series
Why it's underrated:
At just 17 years old, Parthiv Patel was thrown into the deep end in England. Despite his age and inexperience, he showed remarkable composure behind the stumps and in key moments with the bat.
Why it mattered:
His performances helped India save the Headingley Test and earn a series draw. While others took the limelight, Parthiv's maturity under pressure was a quiet triumph in itself.
3. Mohinder Amarnath's All-Round Effort (1982)
Why it's underrated:
In the 1982 home series, Amarnath was not just India's best batter but also chipped in with useful medium pace. He consistently scored against a quality English attack that included Bob Willis and Ian Botham.
Why it mattered:
Amarnath's gritty contributions helped India stay competitive in a series where most struggled against swing and bounce. His effort was overshadowed by bigger names but was the backbone of India's fight.
4. Anil Kumble's 7-Wicket Haul at The Oval (2007)
Why it's underrated:
While Zaheer Khan's performance in the 2007 series is often hailed, Kumble's 7/159 in the final Test at The Oval tends to be overlooked. He toiled hard on an unresponsive pitch, outbowling his English counterparts.
Why it mattered:
Kumble's effort ensured India kept control of the Test match and sealed the series win 1-0—their first in England in 21 years. He also scored his only Test century in the same match, making it a legendary but underappreciated performance.
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5. Stuart Binny's Crucial 78 at Trent Bridge (2014)
Why it's underrated:
On debut, Stuart Binny walked in with India reeling in their first innings. He then played a gutsy knock of 78 under pressure, helping India avoid collapse and earn a draw.
Why it mattered:
Though not flashy, it was a vital innings in tough conditions. Binny's knock showed character and stability, proving that debutants can handle overseas pressure.
6. Ishant Sharma's Spell at Lord's (2014)
Why it's underrated:
While this performance is somewhat recognized, it still doesn't get the full credit it deserves. Ishant 7/74 at Lord's helped India win a Test at the venue after 28 years.
Why it mattered:
It wasn't just the wickets—it was how he bounced out the English middle order, executing a short-ball plan to perfection. It marked a new aggressive phase in India's overseas bowling strategy.
7. Hanuma Vihari's Fighting 56 at The Oval (2021)
Why it's underrated:
Vihari wasn't even in the spotlight coming into the series, but his patient and composed 56 in difficult conditions helped stabilize India's innings in the first innings of the Oval Test.
Why it mattered:
His knock laid the foundation for India's eventual win, even though the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shardul Thakur stole the headlines. Vihari's calmness under pressure added steel to the Indian middle order.
8. Axar Patel's Silent Impact (2024 Series)
Why it's underrated:
While Kuldeep Yadav and Bumrah were hailed for their match-winning spells in the 2024 home series, Axar Patel quietly kept the pressure from the other end, took key wickets, and scored handy runs lower down the order.
Why it mattered:
He was the glue that held the bowling unit together. His consistent economy and smart cricketing brain often turned the tide when matches were finely balanced.
Conclusion
The IND vs ENG Test rivalry has created heroes, broken records, and gifted fans with unforgettable moments. But it's these underrated performances—the quiet fifties, the unsung bowling spells, and the resilient partnerships—that often define the true depth and spirit of Test cricket.
As fans, it's easy to remember the stars. But every once in a while, let's tip our hat to the unsung warriors who made just as big a difference—without ever needing the spotlight.
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