With Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket, India is entering a transitional phase—both in leadership and in batting structure. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has given his clear backing to Shubman Gill, not just as the new Test captain, but also as the successor to Kohli’s iconic No. 4 batting position.
Kohli’s departure has left a vacuum in the middle order, especially given his consistency and dominance at No. 4 over the past decade. While some expected Karun Nair—returning to the Test squad after eight years—to step into that role, Shastri believes Gill, with his maturity and recent leadership responsibilities, is best positioned to inherit it.
In the ICC Review, Shastri outlined his ideal Indian XI for the first Test against England:
-
Openers: Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL RahulShastri praised Rahul’s previous performances in England, including a century on the last tour, and said his experience would be crucial alongside the aggressive Jaiswal.
-
No. 3: Sai SudharsanThe 23-year-old has had an outstanding domestic season and a record-breaking IPL run. Shastri sees this England tour as the perfect initiation for Sudharsan into Test cricket.
-
No. 4: Shubman GillHaving batted at No. 3 previously, Gill will now take on greater responsibility at No. 4—a role Shastri believes suits his temperament and skill set.
-
No. 5: Karun NairShastri lauded Nair’s consistency in first-class cricket and his grit to fight back into contention, citing his domestic dominance and county stint as key factors.
-
No. 6: Rishabh PantFully recovered and in form, Pant is expected to provide balance and firepower in the lower middle order.
Shastri’s suggestions show a mix of youth and experience, reflecting both a respect for proven performers and a belief in new talent. With the five-match series starting Friday, the spotlight will firmly be on Gill—not just for his captaincy, but for how he shoulders the massive expectations that come with replacing Kohli at No. 4.
