Gary Kirsten is not the most elegant left-handed batsman in world cricket. But when it comes to consistency and fighting spirit, he is one of the best opening batsmen in the world. One might be fooled into believing that Kirsten is more of a Test batsman, but his record speaks for itself: 5776 runs at an average of 40.67, ten centuries, 39 fifties and a highest score of 188* in 156 ODIs.

Against India, he has an overall record of: 1145 runs in 23 matches at an average of 57.25, highest score of 115*, three hundreds and eight fifties. Playing at home against India, his record is as good his away record: 232 runs scored in five matches at an average of 58.00, which includes three half centuries.