As India prepare to face England in the opening Test of a much-anticipated five-match series, vice-captain Rishabh Pant has revealed a major shift in the team’s batting order. Speaking to the press just two days before the series kicks off at Headingley, Pant confirmed that Shubman Gill will bat at No. 4, while he himself will settle in at No. 5 — roles that mark a new era for Indian Test cricket.
“Shubman will be batting at No. 4 and I will continue at No. 5. The No. 3 spot is still open and will be decided soon,” Pant said on Tuesday.
This series marks the beginning of India’s campaign in the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship, and the new-look side will take the field without two of its most celebrated veterans — Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom announced their retirements from Test cricket earlier this year.
Gill Steps Into Kohli’s Shoes at No. 4
The No. 4 position has long been considered the cornerstone of India’s batting lineup, and filling in for Kohli is no small task. But Gill, who has already shown glimpses of brilliance across formats, now shoulders the responsibility of anchoring the innings in what is traditionally one of the most challenging positions in red-ball cricket.
Pant, too, is embracing a leadership role — not just with the gloves but also as a middle-order pillar. His statement confirms what many had speculated after India’s intra-squad practice game: the team is undergoing a structural reset, with emerging players expected to step into high-pressure roles.
No. 3 Conundrum: Nair or Sudharsan?
The only major decision still pending is who will walk out at No. 3. With just one training session remaining before the first Test, Karun Nair seems to have the edge. The 33-year-old batted at that position during a closed-door match between India and India A, and his previous Test experience may give him the nod.
However, Sai Sudharsan, the uncapped Tamil Nadu batter, remains a strong contender. Known for his technical skill and temperament, he’s been tipped as an all-format prospect by several former players and coaches.
Historical Context: Redemption After 2021 Tour
India came agonizingly close to winning their last Test series in England during the 2021 tour, when they led 2-1 before COVID-19 disrupted the final leg. That series eventually concluded in 2022 with a loss in the postponed Test, leading to a 2-2 draw.
The wounds from that series still linger, and Pant hinted that this new squad is determined to go one better — not just for themselves, but for the country.
Pant Dedicates Series to Victims of Air Crash
In a heartfelt moment during the press conference, Pant addressed the tragic Air India crash that claimed 241 lives last week near Ahmedabad. The incident has shaken the nation, and the team has dedicated their upcoming performance to the memory of the victims.
“What happened in the aircraft crash… the whole of India was disheartened. But the only thing we can do is stick with them emotionally and try to make the nation happy again,” Pant said.
All Eyes on Headingley
The Headingley Test, beginning June 20, will be the first true test for India’s next generation of red-ball leaders. England, led by Ben Stokes, have already named a sharp, pace-heavy squad. But India, with Pant, Gill, and a handful of rising stars, look ready to turn the page and begin a new chapter in their Test legacy
