In light of Virat Kohli’s retirement from the Test format, Ravi Shastri has identified Shubman Gill as the prime contender to bat at No. 4 for India in the upcoming Test series against England. Kohli, a mainstay in the Indian batting order for over a decade after taking over from Sachin Tendulkar, left a significant gap. The team now faces the challenge of filling this crucial position.
Speculation has been rife regarding the No. 4 position, with Karun Nair, who has made a return to the Test squad after eight years, also being considered. However, Shastri believes Gill is the best option, citing his leadership qualities and his batting ability in the middle order.
Shastri has also proposed his preferred opening pair for the first Test, backing KL Rahul to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Rahul’s recent performances in England and his experience provide him an edge. With Gill expected to move down the order, the No. 3 spot is now available.
Shastri has also backed B. Sudharsan for a middle-order position. The 23-year-old has been in stellar form, setting a record as the youngest batter to score over 700 runs in an IPL season, and extending his good form into first-class cricket. Shastri sees the England series as a golden opportunity for Sudharsan to cement his place in the Test squad.
He has also picked Karun Nair and Rishabh Pant for the middle order. Gill’s move to No. 4, according to Shastri, signifies not just a tactical adjustment, but also recognition of his leadership development and improved batting skills. The former coach believes Gill is well-equipped to take on this significant role.
The first Test of the five-match series begins on June 20, ushering in a new era for Indian cricket. The spotlight will be on how Shubman Gill, as the captain in the longest format, and potential successor to Kohli at No. 4, leads and performs with the young team.