England vs India: Picking strongest all-time XI in Test cricket

One of the oldest and most illustrious rivalries in Test cricket history is that between India and England. The two teams have put on classic displays and memorable games since 1932.

Some of the biggest names in the game have frequently appeared in this fixture, from historic centuries to moments of match-winning success. This is the strongest ever combined XI based only on Test results in India-England matches.

These choices are made just based on influence and scores on the IND vs. ENG tests, not on professions in general. This XI was shaped in large part by stability, longevity, and impact under pressure. Each of the players on this list has had pivotal performances that helped their team win games or series.

Here is the strongest all-time India and England combined XI in Tests:

With more than 2,400 runs and several hundreds both at home and abroad, Sunil Gavaskar begins the innings to demonstrate his domination over England. His partner is Alastair Cook, who has five hundreds in India and is England's most prolific Test scorer against India.

Rahul Dravid, who scored almost 2,000 runs in this competition with his signature grit, is ranked third. Sachin Tendulkar, who leads the total with 2,535 runs and seven hundreds in 32 games, comes in at number four after Joe Root, who has over 2,500 runs and a record nine hundreds in IND-ENG Tests.

After leading India to multiple significant victories and scoring more than 1,300 runs, MS Dhoni takes on the gloves and captaincy. As the all-around player, Ben Stokes has been instrumental in recent series with game-changing spells and important knocks.

Down the hierarchy, Kapil Dev, who took 85 wickets against England, is India's leading wicket-taker. With 92 wickets and a commanding lead at home, Anil Kumble is an obvious choice.

The bowler with the most wickets for England, James Anderson, comes next with 139 scalps against India. Bishan Singh Bedi, who took 85 wickets with remarkable control and skill, completes the spin tandem.

With 1,588 runs and a few standout knocks, Kevin Pietersen is the 12th man and just misses out because of the loaded top order.

Here is the strongest all-time India and England combined XI in Tests:

Sunil Gavaskar, Alastair Cook, Rahul Dravid, Joe Root, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni (C-WK), Ben Stokes, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, James Anderson, Bishan Singh Bedi, Kevin Pietersen (12th man).

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