Bol India Bol

A Rare Opening in a Legendary Position

For over a decade, the No. 4 position in India’s Test lineup has had just one name—Virat Kohli. Before him, it was Sachin Tendulkar. It’s more than a number on a scorecard; it’s the axis around which the batting order has revolved.

But with Kohli unavailable for the upcoming India vs England Test series in 2025, the selectors face a rare and delicate dilemma: who is ready—not just to fill a gap—but to inherit the weight of this iconic role?

Understanding the Role: Why No. 4 Matters So Much

The No. 4 batter is typically the stabilizer of the innings. Whether coming in at 20 for 2 or 200 for 2, this player must adapt instantly—defend resolutely, counter-attack intelligently, and build the backbone of the innings. In home conditions against England’s spin-heavy attack or abroad against pace, the demands remain immense.

The Contenders: Assessing India’s Options

India has several capable candidates, each bringing unique skills and baggage. Let’s break them down.

Shubman Gill: Groomed for Greatness

Among the current crop, Shubman Gill stands out as a likely long-term heir to Kohli’s throne. Having transitioned to No. 3 in the past year, Gill has shown flashes of brilliance and technical maturity. The move to No. 4 would not be drastic—and might even suit his temperament better.

Why it makes sense:

• He’s a long-term investment

• Already part of the leadership group

• Has the technique and flair to dominate at home and away

Possible risk:
Still inconsistent against quality spin, especially in turning conditions.

KL Rahul: Experience Over Potential?

If the team management values experience and calm under pressure, KL Rahul may get the nod. He has batted in every position from opener to middle order and has a decent record in Tests abroad.

Why consider him:

• Brings maturity and calm

• Good player of pace and spin

• Versatile and team-oriented

Challenges:
Form has fluctuated, and his performances in Indian conditions haven’t always matched his away records.

Sarfaraz Khan: Domestic Dominator Deserving His Shot

With a first-class average consistently above 70 and multiple double and triple hundreds in domestic cricket, Sarfaraz Khan has made a compelling case through sheer volume of runs.

Strengths:

• Heavy scorer in tough conditions

• Strong against spin, an asset against England

• Known for long, gritty innings

What holds him back:
Yet to debut in international cricket, and selectors may hesitate to debut him in a high-profile series.

Karun Nair: The Forgotten Name in the Frame

Karun Nair scored a triple hundred in only his third Test back in 2016, ironically also against England. Since then, he’s drifted out of the reckoning, but with middle-order experience and good technique, he remains a name that can’t be ruled out entirely.

Pros:

• Test triple-centurion

• Technically solid and versatile

• Hungry for a comeback

Cons:
Lack of consistent domestic performances in recent seasons has kept him on the fringes.

Selection Will Depend on Team Strategy

Much will depend on how India structure their batting order:

• If KL Rahul opens with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill may retain his No. 3 slot, leaving the No. 4 opening.

• If Gill is pushed to No. 4, Rahul or Sarfaraz could slot in at No. 3 depending on form and match-ups.

• India may also weigh in the conditions—turning pitches could favor Sarfaraz’s inclusion for his spin-handling ability.

Predicted Line-up (No Kohli Scenario)

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal

2. KL Rahul

3. Shubman Gill

4. Sarfaraz Khan / KL Rahul / Gill

5. Rishabh Pant / KS Bharat (wk)

6. Ravindra Jadeja

7. Shreyas Iyer / Hanuma Vihari

The Psychological Factor

Beyond technique and temperament, there is the question of mental strength. Replacing Kohli is not a skill-based challenge alone—it is a test of mindset. The new No. 4 will carry the invisible pressure of legacy, expectation, and comparison.