Ravi Shastri handpicks Virat Kohli's replacement for India at number 4 in Tests

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has revealed his preference for the No. 4 batting position following Virat Kohli’s retirement from Tests ahead of the five-match series against England. Shastri backed skipper Shubman Gill to bat at number four, adding that it could be an ideal position for him.

India is facing a challenge in deciding who will take the No. 4 batting spot after the retirement of Virat Kohli. KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill are expected to feature in the top four. Jaiswal is confirmed as an opening batter, while Rahul and Gill can bat at various positions in the lineup.

I Think It Might Just Suit Shubman Gill - Ravi Shastri

India are set to tour England for a five-match Test series beginning on June 20 in Leeds. The visitors will have a relatively inexperienced lineup following the retirements of veterans Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin from Test cricket.

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Speaking to the ICC, Ravi Shastri said that Shubman Gill should bat at number four, adding that it would give the new captain valuable time to settle in.

"I think it might just suit Shubman [Gill], the captain, to give him that little bit of extra time to think. He can open with two left-handers also, if need be," Ravi Shastri said.

KL Rahul Has Played His Best When He's at the Top - Ravi Shastri

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Ravi Shastri said that KL Rahul has performed at his best when batting at the top of the order. He highlighted Rahul’s disciplined and impactful batting during the 2021 England series. Shastri also said that Rahul has the ability to handle the new ball, backing him at No. 3.

"Although I always feel Rahul has played his best when he's at the top. The way he batted in England in the 2021 series was outstanding. Just his discipline, his ability to leave. Even when he started off in Australia, he was excellent.

"He's the kind who, once he sees that new ball, makes it count, he goes big. You know, he's a hundred-man. And when you look at it, he's the experienced bloke in the team. I'd rather push him there. At most, if you decide Sudharsan’s in the side and should open, there's nothing wrong with having one or two left-handers. Then Rahul drops down to three. I would say Rahul at three and Shubman at four," he concluded.

Ajit Agarkar Leaves No. 4 Batting Spot Decision to Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir

Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of the selection committee, was asked about India’s next No. 4 batter during a press conference. He said the decision will be left to Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Agarkar added that he is not responsible for deciding the batting order.

"Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir might take a call on the number four in the batting order. I cannot give the batting order from here," Agarkar said.

The five-match Test series between India and England will begin on June 20 at Leeds. The remaining matches will be played at Edgbaston (July 2-6), Lord's (July 10-14), Old Trafford (July 23-27), and The Oval (July 31-August 4).

Also read: Ajit Agarkar reveals colossal reason behind naming Rishabh Pant India’s Test vice-captain