Who Will Replace Virat Kohli at No. 4 for England Tests? India Faces Crucial Batting Dilemma
In the wake of Virat Kohli’s Test retirement, Indian cricket finds itself at a crossroads. For over a decade, Kohli anchored the No. 4 position with unmatched consistency, taking over the mantle from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar in 2013. His departure has left a gaping hole in the middle order, and with the upcoming England Test series on the horizon, the Indian selectors are under immense pressure to identify a long-term replacement.
India’s batting lineup has appeared fragile in recent years. The gradual decline of stalwarts like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, coupled with inconsistent form from Kohli and Rohit Sharma, has exposed vulnerabilities. Now, as India prepares for a challenging tour, the question looms large: who can step into Kohli’s shoes and stabilize the middle order?
One name that stands out is Shubman Gill, often hailed as India’s future captain. Gill, who has predominantly batted at the top of the order, could be asked to shift to No. 4—a position that demands technical prowess and mental fortitude. However, this transition is far from straightforward. Gill has shown reluctance to move down the order in the past, and it took persistent efforts from former head coach Rahul Dravid to convince him to give up opening in Tests. The move was seen as a preparatory step for eventually taking over the critical No. 4 slot.
Former India opener and U-19 coach WV Raman believes Gill’s current position should remain undisturbed. ‘Gill has always opened or batted at No. 3 throughout his career. In the absence of someone with the stature of Kohli or Tendulkar, the most experienced batter must take up the responsibility at No. 4. For me, that’s KL Rahul,’ Raman opined. Rahul, with his versatility and experience across formats, has often been the team’s go-to man in crisis, having batted in various positions over the years.
The selectors are also exploring other options. Rajat Patidar, who impressed with a gritty century on debut against England earlier this year, is in contention. Similarly, Karun Nair—who once scored a historic triple hundred against England in 2016—could be considered, especially as he is part of the India A tour to England. Another name in the mix is Shreyas Iyer, though his struggles in overseas conditions might work against him.
Former India selector Devang Gandhi strongly backs Rahul for the role. ‘KL Rahul’s career has been about adaptability. He’s filled in wherever the team needed him. Right now, if the management feels Rahul is settled at the top, then Gill should be the one to bat at No. 4. Gill has the temperament of a middle-order batter, as we saw during his India A days. Plus, if he’s being groomed for captaincy, this could be a defining role for him,’ Gandhi told Times of India. Gandhi also highlighted the in-form Sai Sudharsan as a potential opener, allowing Rahul to slide down if needed.
As India prepares for the five-Test series against England, starting in November 2024, the No. 4 conundrum remains a puzzle. Kohli’s record at the position is staggering—8,848 Test runs at an average of 49.15, with 29 centuries, many of which came in high-pressure situations. Matching his impact seems daunting, but the right choice could define India’s batting fortunes for years to come.
In conclusion, the battle for No. 4 is not just about filling a spot; it’s about finding a pillar for India’s middle order. Will it be the promising Shubman Gill, the adaptable KL Rahul, or a surprise pick like Rajat Patidar? As the selectors deliberate, fans and experts alike await a decision that could shape the future of Indian Test cricket. One thing is certain—this is a dilemma that demands both vision and courage.