ENG v IND: Shubman Gill to bat at No. 4 in Leeds Test, confirms Pant

Leeds, June 18: India captain Shubman Gill is set to take up the iconic No. 4 spot in the batting order for the first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds, beginning Friday. Gill's deputy and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant confirmed the decision during a press conference on Wednesday, ending weeks of speculation following Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket.

“I think there is still discussion going on about who is going to bat at No. 3. But No. 4 and 5 are fixed,” Pant said. “I think Shubman will bat at No. 4, and I am going to stick to No. 5 as of now. The rest, we are going to keep discussing.”

With the No. 4 position historically held by legends like Sachin Tendulkar and, more recently, Virat Kohli, Gill stepping into that role marks a significant shift in India's red-ball batting framework. Gill, who had been pushed to No. 3 after struggling as an opener, seems ready to embrace the responsibility of what is often considered the cornerstone position in Test batting.

The No. 3 slot, however, remains undecided. Karun Nair — who brings experience and a triple-century to his name — is one of the frontrunners, while rising star B Sai Sudharsan could also be in contention to make his debut.

If Sudharsan gets the nod, he is likely to bat at No. 3. However, if India chooses to stack their lineup with three all-rounders, then Karun could take the slot, allowing the likes of Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shardul Thakur to bolster the lower-middle order.

India’s new team management under head coach Gautam Gambhir is expected to bring a bold, flexible approach, but there will be more clarity on team composition when Gill himself addresses the media on the eve of the match.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.

Gill at No.4 makes sense! He's got the technique and temperament for this crucial position. But I'm worried about No.3 - we can't keep experimenting there. Should have groomed someone like Iyer for this role long back. #INDvENG

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Priya M.

Exciting times for Indian cricket! 😊 Gill has shown maturity beyond his years. No.4 is where legends are made - hope he grabs this opportunity with both hands. But why not try Pant at 3? He's in great form and can dominate early.

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Arjun S.

The pressure of replacing Kohli at No.4 is huge! Hope the management gives Gill a long rope. England conditions will test him, but if he succeeds here, he'll cement his place for years. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳

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Sneha R.

Why is there so much confusion about No.3? Either pick Nair for his experience or give Sudharsan a proper debut. This last-minute uncertainty isn't good for team morale. Gambhir needs to show clearer decision-making.

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Vikram J.

Gill at 4, Pant at 5 - this could be India's middle order for the next decade! But they need to find stability at 3. Personally would prefer Karun Nair there - his experience in England conditions could be valuable.

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Neha P.

The real test begins now for Gill! No.4 in England against Anderson & Broad is no joke. Hope our team management has prepared him well. Also, would love to see Sai Sudharsan get a chance - fresh talent is always exciting! 💫

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