New Zealand's tour of India comprises three Tests, with the opening fixture scheduled to be held on October 16 in Bengaluru. The second will be held on October 28, Pune whereas the third and final Test will be held on November 1 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

The highly-anticipated India vs New Zealand Test series is less than three weeks away from getting underway and it is important that we reflect on the Indian batters who have left their mark against the Kiwis.

It is no secret that Indian cricket has produced some legendary batters over the decades. The ever-so batting greats went on to dominate New Zealand in the longest format. Here are the top five Indian batters with the most runs against New Zealand in Test cricket.

1. Rahul Dravid - 1659 runs: "The Wall of Indian cricket" tops the chart with a staggering 1659 runs against New Zealand in Tests. Over his illustrious career, he weathered the oppositions' bowling storms at the crease for long hours, a trait that made him one of the backbones of India’s top order. Overall, he has hammered 1 double century, 6 centuries and as many fifties against New Zealand.

2. Sachin Tendulkar - 1595 runs: The legendary Sachin Tendulkar comes second on the list with 1595 runs at an average of 46.91. The Indian batting great was a constant thorn in the opposition's plans as he scored runs at all, including 4 centuries and 8 fifties. His impeccable 217 in Ahmedabad, 1999 probably has to be one of the finest knocks.

3. Virender Sehwag - 883 runs: The Nawab of Najafgarh who was known for his aggressive and fearless batting ranks third with 883 runs to his name against New Zealand. The former Indian opener who was best known for taking the game away from the opposition within a few sessions has smacked 2 centuries and 3 fifties, with a top score of 173.

4. Cheteshwar Pujara - 867 runs: India's veteran cricketer, Cheteshwar Pujara has currently fallen out of favour with the selectors. However, he has been one of the key figures for India over the years. Known for his resilience and patience, Pujara comes fourth on the list with 867 runs against New Zealand. The 36-year-old struck 2 centuries and 4 fifties, with a top score of 159.

5. Virat Kohli - 866 runs: India's run-machine is certainly one of the batters to watch out for in the upcoming series against New Zealand. The ever-so-dominant Virat Kohli rounds off this elite list with 866 runs to his name, including 3 centuries and 3 fifties, with a best score of 211. He is one of the very few batters in the modern era to perform at such a high level for more than a decade and all eyes will be on him in the home assignment against the Kiwis.