Top 6 Indian cricket captains ranked by era and legacy

Over the decades, Indian cricket has seen numerous captains leading the national team. While many have taken the responsibility, only a few have made their names in the legacy of Indian cricket. These leaders not just won matches but transformed the team culture, inspired belief, and brought a fighting spirit. Their legacy continues to influence how Indian cricket operates today. 

6. Mohammad Azharuddin

Mohammad Azharuddin was one of those Indian captains who led the team with style and charisma. Making his Test debut against England in 1984, he burst onto the scene with centuries in each of his first three Tests. As a batter, he was admired for his technique and wrist work and often compared to Zaheer Abbas and Greg Chappell.

Azharuddin captained India in 47 Tests and 174 ODIs, leading the team to 14 and 90 wins respectively. He scored 6215 runs with 22 centuries In 99 Tests and amassed 9378 runs in 334 ODIs. His 121 at Lord’s in 1990 is one of the most memorable knocks played by him. Azharuddin's career was cut short due to match-fixing allegations. However, he received immense appreciation from his teammates and fans for leading the team for a decade. Notably, he captained the team in three ODI World Cups, from 1992 to 1999.