Gill-ed In: Shastri Picks Shubman to Fill Kohli’s No.4 Shoes in England Test Series

As India gears up for a new era in Test cricket post the retirement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, former head coach Ravi Shastri has unveiled his preferred batting order for the upcoming five-match Test series against England. And the biggest surprise? Shubman Gill, not KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant, is Shastri’s pick to inherit the iconic No.4 slot.

Top Order Shake-Up

Shastri supports KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal to open the innings, naming Rahul's previous success in English conditions.

Emerging star Sai Sudharsan is set to make his debut at No.3, taking Gill's earlier slot.

Middle Order Focus

Shubman Gill, now captain, finds favor with Shastri at the crucial No.4 position—which was occupied by Kohli and earlier by Sachin Tendulkar.

Karun Nair, back after eight years, finds a place at No.5 on the basis of his domestic mastery.

Rishabh Pant, also vice-captain, is expected to bat at No.6 and keep wickets.

Bowling Blueprint

Shastri’s pace trio includes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna, with Arshdeep Singh as a swing-friendly alternative.

All-rounder slot could go to Nitish Reddy if he can deliver 12–14 overs per innings.

Why It Matters

This lineup reflects a bold generational shift, with Gill’s promotion symbolizing both leadership and legacy. Shastri’s picks blend experience with emerging talent, aiming to counter England’s home advantage with fresh energy and tactical depth.

Sources: DNA India, India Today, ICC Review, Firstpost, News24, MSN News, Cricket Country.