The retirement of Virat Kohli from Test cricket in early 2025 marked the end of an era for Indian cricket. Known for his aggressive captaincy and unmatched consistency at India Test No. 4 Replacement left behind a gaping hole in India’s middle order. Since then, the Indian team management has been on a relentless quest to find a dependable successor to anchor the innings.
But who has stepped up? And can any of the contenders truly fill Kohli’s shoes? This article examines India’s search for a solid No. 4 batter in Test cricket, analyzing the leading candidates, their performances, and what the future holds.
Why the No. 4 Role is Crucial in Test Cricket
The No. 4 position in Test cricket is often reserved for the team’s most technically sound and mentally resilient batter. This player must stabilize the innings after early wickets, counter aggressive bowling attacks, and build partnerships with the lower order.
India Test No. 4 Replacement, For over a decade, Virat Kohli excelled in this role, amassing 8,676 runs at an average of 49.29 in 113 Tests. His departure left India scrambling for a long-term solution. The selectors have experimented with multiple players, but consistency remains elusive.
Top Contenders for India’s No. 4 Spot in Tests
Shreyas Iyer – The Frontrunner
Shreyas Iyer emerged as the immediate successor, thanks to his strong domestic record and aggressive batting style. Known for his ability to handle spin, Iyer has shown flashes of brilliance, including a crucial 105 against Australia in the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
However, his susceptibility to short-pitched bowling and inconsistency outside Asia raise concerns. Injuries have also plagued his career, limiting his Test appearances. If he stays fit and refines his technique, Iyer could solidify his claim.
KL Rahul – The Versatile Option
KL Rahul’s experience and adaptability make him a strong candidate. Initially an opener, Rahul has batted in the middle order in ODIs and T20s, proving his versatility. His century at No. 5 against South Africa in 2023 showcased his ability to anchor the innings.
Yet, Rahul’s inconsistency in Tests remains an issue. While he has the skill, converting starts into big scores has been a challenge. If he can deliver more consistently, he could be the answer.
Sarfaraz Khan – The Domestic Giant
Sarfaraz Khan’s staggering first-class average of 69.85 makes him a compelling choice. His aggressive stroke play and ability to dominate spinners align well with India’s needs. After years of dominance in the Ranji Trophy, he finally earned his Test debut in 2024.
However, questions linger about his ability against high-quality pace attacks. If he adapts well to international cricket, Sarfaraz could be a long-term solution.
Rajat Patidar – The Dark Horse
Rajat Patidar has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket and the IPL. His calm demeanor and solid technique earned him a Test call-up in 2024. While still untested at the highest level, his ability to play long innings makes him a promising option.
Cheteshwar Pujara – The Veteran Fallback
Despite being phased out after the 2023 World Test Championship final, Pujara remains a reliable option. His experience and defensive mastery could provide stability, especially in overseas conditions. However, his declining strike rate and age make him a short-term fix rather than a permanent solution.
Challenges in Finding the Right Fit
India Test No. 4 Replacement batter is complicated by several factors:
- Different Conditions, Different Needs: A player who excels at home may struggle overseas.
- Pressure of Expectations: Replacing Kohli is a monumental task, and young players often buckle under scrutiny.
- Team Balance: The management must decide whether to prioritize aggression (Iyer, Sarfaraz) or stability (Rahul, Pujara).
What’s Next for India’s Middle Order?
The upcoming Test series against England and Australia will be crucial in determining India’s long-term No. 4. The selectors may continue rotating players until someone establishes themselves.
According to a recent ESPNCricinfo report, India’s batting coach has emphasized the need for patience, stating that “identifying Kohli’s successor will take time.”
Read More: The Greatest Test Series of All Time – Revisiting the Classics
Conclusion
India Test No. 4 Replacement, Virat Kohli’s exit left a void that no single player has yet filled convincingly. While Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul lead the race, Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar offer exciting alternatives. The coming months will be critical in shaping India’s middle-order future.
For now, the search continues. Will India find their next great No. 4, or will the spot remain a revolving door? Only time—and performances—will tell.
