KL Rahul at No. 4? Gill Won’t Open? India’s England Test Order Surprises Many

New Delhi (Delhi) [India], June 16:  As the India vs England Test series nears, former BCCI selector Venkatapathy Raju has shared an unexpected batting order. He believes that Shubman Gill will not open but will play at No. 3. Instead, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan might start the innings. KL Rahul is being seen as the likely No. 4, a position once held by Virat Kohli. This marks a major shift in India's red-ball strategy.

Gill as No. 3, Not Opener? Here's What’s Being Discussed

Fans have always seen Gill as a perfect opener. But now, experts say that leading the team might change his role. Raju feels that Gill will get more time to settle if he bats at No. 3. This could help him stay calm as a captain. Opening is not easy in English conditions, and Sudharsan’s good IPL form gives India more choices. The move is bold but may be smart.

KL Rahul Steps Into Kohli’s Big Shoes at No. 4

Kohli owned the No. 4 spot for over a decade. Now with him gone, Raju feels Rahul is the right person to step in. Rahul had earlier played at No. 4 during the 2024 England series and had done well. But fans know that replacing Kohli is never easy. The pressure will be high, and every innings will be watched closely. Rahul must balance experience with calmness to succeed.

Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair Return to Red-Ball Format

Sai Sudharsan is likely to make his Test debut while Karun Nair may return after nearly 8 years. Sudharsan’s rise from IPL 2025 has caught everyone’s eye. Karun, who once scored a triple century, now gets another chance. Both batters are expected to face the swinging conditions in England. With no Rohit Sharma at the top, India’s opening pair is young and promising—but untested on foreign soil.

Pant, Jadeja and Bumrah Still Hold the Middle Ground

Rishabh Pant is expected at No. 5, continuing his comeback after injury. Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah add strength with both ball and bat. Raju reminded everyone that only a few players from the earlier core remain. This tour could define the future of Indian Test cricket. As head coach Gautam Gambhir plans strategies, fans hope the new team handles pressure and keeps the team spirit alive.