Who Could Fill Virat Kohli’s No. 4 Spot in Test Line-up?

As Virat Kohli abdicates Test cricket, the selectors have a big decision ahead of them: who will replace him at No. 4? This piece looks at the leading candidates and how they’ve fared with their form, technique, temperament, and willingness to rise to the challenge in the longest form.

The Legacy of No. 4 By Kohli

Virat Kohli transformed the No. 4 role in Test cricket. His dominance, solidity, and mental strength made him irreplaceable. With his retirement, the team must now go about revamping that pillar of the batting unit.

No. 4 is a role that defines the innings. It requires technicality, patience, and a pressure-absorbing ability. This position has had some of the game’s all-time greats, and the role asks for more than pure talent.

Shreyas Iyer: Stylish and Reliable

Shreyas Iyer is also one of the leading contenders to inherit. He has good Test statistics, more than 800 runs at a decent average. Iyer’s aggressive batting and unflappable presence at the crease suit him well.

His comeback to the red-ball game has provided glimpses of maturity. The right-hander is capable of handling both pace and spin and has already navigated high-pressure situations against strong teams. His fitness and consistency will be key in long-format matches.

KL Rahul: Experience and Versatility

KL Rahul is another experienced campaigner in the running. Having played across the line in Tests, Rahul provides depth. Footwork, calmness, and a big-match temperament make him a desirable No. 4 option.

He has captained the team previously and demonstrated the temperament required at the top level. But he must support his reputation with runs consistently to stake that middle-order claim for good.

Sarfaraz Khan: Rewarding Domestic Form

Sarfaraz Khan’s home form over the last few years has been outstanding. Scoring well over 65 in First-Class cricket, he has accumulated runs across conditions.

His appetite for big scores and his capacity to play long innings are notable. The only doubt is if he can convert that home supremacy into Test success. But the indications are encouraging, and he should be given serious consideration.

Sai Sudharsan: The Emerging Talent

Sai Sudharsan is a thrilling young talent who has impressed with his local appearances. A technically astute player, he remains mentally calm under pressure.

Should the selectors go with youth, Sudharsan can be developed as a long-term No. 4 choice. Exposure and close monitoring are needed for him, but he is surely one for the future.

Other Names in the Mix

A few others may be strong contenders on current form. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rajat Patidar have done well in the longer version. Abhimanyu Easwaran is constructing a good First-Class career. These individuals might not be top picks presently, but could materialise shortly.

Constructing Beyond Kohli

Replacing a figure like Virat Kohli is never going to be easy, but the talent pool today provides both experience and potential. Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul have Test experience, and there are Sarfaraz Khan and Sudharsan with fresh energy and potential.

The destiny of the No. 4 slot in the Test team now rests on intelligent choices, good grooming, and waiting. The side requires a solid middle-order nucleus, and this is the ideal time to cement the pillars of a new generation. As the red-ball team matures, the next No. 4 will not only occupy a number but inherit a legacy, and perhaps forge their own.