Scoring a Test century at Lord’s Cricket Ground represents the pinnacle of achievement for any batter. The iconic Honours Boards in the pavilion immortalize these special innings, making them dreams worth chasing. As India gears up for the 3rd Test against England (July 10-14, 2025), only ten Indian batters have managed to breach the three-figure mark at cricket’s most prestigious venue.
Now here’s where cricket gets deliciously ironic – while legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are conspicuously absent from this exclusive club, Ajit Agarkar sits comfortably on the Honours Board with his unbeaten 109. Yes, the same Agarkar who was more famous for his bowling than batting exploits somehow conquered Lord’s when cricket’s modern gods couldn’t! It’s one of those beautiful quirks that make cricket endlessly fascinating – sometimes the most unexpected heroes write the most memorable chapters.
Complete List of Indian Test Centurions at Lord’s
Player | Centuries | Scores | Years | Notable Achievement |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dilip Vengsarkar | 3 | 103, 157, 126* | 1979, 1982, 1986 | Only overseas player with 3 Lord’s centuries |
Vinoo Mankad | 1 | 184 | 1952 | First Indian centurion & highest score |
Gundappa Viswanath | 1 | 113 | 1979 | Partnership with Vengsarkar saved India |
Ravi Shastri | 1 | 107 | 1990 | Opening batsman in second innings |
Mohammed Azharuddin | 1 | 106 | 1990 | Left-handed elegance on display |
Sourav Ganguly | 1 | 131 | 1996 | Debut Test century at Lord’s |
Ajit Agarkar | 1 | 109* | 2002 | Surprising century from tailender |
Rahul Dravid | 1 | 103* | 2007 | Unbeaten knock in typical Dravid style |
Ajinkya Rahane | 1 | 103 | 2014 | Terrific knock under pressure |
Cheteshwar Pujara | 1 | 132 | 2018 | Patient accumulation masterclass |
KL Rahul | 1 | 129 | 2021 | Match Winning Century |
The Exclusive Club: Breaking Down the Achievements
Dilip Vengsarkar – The “Lord of Lord’s”
Vengsarkar stands alone as the only overseas player to score three Test centuries at Lord’s. His remarkable consistency across three different tours (1979, 1982, 1986) earned him legendary status. His unbeaten 126 in 1986 was particularly special, helping India secure a historic victory at Lord’s.
Vinoo Mankad – The Trailblazer
As the first Indian to score a Test century at Lord’s, Mankad’s 184 in 1952 remains the highest individual score by an Indian at the venue. His pioneering knock opened the doors for future generations.
Sourav Ganguly – Dream Debut
Ganguly’s 131 in 1996 came in his debut Test, making it one of the most memorable first appearances at Lord’s. The left-hander announced his arrival on the international stage with characteristic flair.
Ajit Agarkar – The Surprise Package
Perhaps the most unexpected entry on this list, Agarkar’s unbeaten 109 in 2002 shocked everyone. Known primarily for his bowling, this innings remains one of cricket’s great surprises.
Similar: IND vs ENG 3rd Test 2025: Highest Individual Scores by Indian Batters at Lord’s
The Lord’s Challenge
Scoring a century at Lord’s requires special skills due to unique challenges:
- The Famous Slope: 2.5-meter gradient affects batting technique
- English Conditions: Swing-friendly atmosphere tests technique
- Pressure of History: Weight of performing at cricket’s cathedral
- Variable Weather: English summer conditions demand adaptability
Current Context: Who Could Be Next?
With India entering the 3rd Test after Shubman Gill’s record-breaking 269 at Edgbaston, several current players have the potential to join this exclusive list:
Current Player | Recent Form | Potential |
---|---|---|
Shubman Gill | 585 runs in 2 Tests | High |
Rishabh Pant | 858 runs in recent Tests | High |
Yashasvi Jaiswal | Consistent performer | Medium |
The Honours Board Awaits
As India takes the field at Lord’s with confidence from their recent 336-run victory, the Honours Boards in the pavilion await new entries. The current batting form suggests India’s long wait for a new Lord’s centurion might finally end.
Only time will tell which Indian batter will become the tenth member of this prestigious club and etch their name forever in cricket’s most sacred venue.