Who Will Replace Virat Kohli at No. 4? These 4 Contenders Are in the Race

With Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket, Team India faces a significant challenge: filling the massive void at the No. 4 position. Kohli played 99 Tests at that spot, scoring over 7500 runs with 26 centuries — making it one of the most productive positions in India's batting order. Now, the selectors must identify a successor who can offer stability, skill, and temperament in the longest format.

Here are the 4 main contenders to replace Kohli at No. 4 in India’s Test lineup:

1. KL Rahul – The Immediate Favorite

• Tests Played: 58
• Runs: 3257
• Average: 33.57
• At No. 4: Played 1 match, averaged 54
• Strengths: Versatility, experience, good overseas record
• Why he fits: With wicketkeeping duties and middle-order experience, Rahul is the most reliable short-term option. His style suits the demands of No. 4, especially in overseas conditions like England and South Africa.

2. Shreyas Iyer – Talent with Uncertainty

• Tests Played: 14
• Runs: 811
• Average: 36.86
• Centuries: 1
• Strengths: Natural middle-order batter, strong against spin
• Why he fits: Iyer has the technique and temperament but has struggled with consistency and injuries. If fit and in form, he could be a long-term solution.

3. Rajat Patidar – Domestic Star, Needs Test Consistency

• First-Class Matches: 68
• Runs: 4738
• Average: ~45
• 2024–25 Ranji Trophy: 529 runs in 7 matches at 48 average
• Why he fits: Patidar has dominated domestic cricket but failed to convert chances in the England Test series. Still, his first-class numbers and recent Ranji form make him a serious option.

4. Devdutt Padikkal – The Promising Left-Hander

• Tests Played: 2
• Runs: 90
• First-Class Average: 57.81
• Why he fits: Padikkal has a textbook technique and composure beyond his years. Though he’s new to Test cricket, his impressive debut and first-class record make him a wildcard — and potentially a long-term asset.

Verdict: Short-Term vs Long-Term

• Short-Term: KL Rahul is most likely to step in at No. 4 for the England tour due to his experience and adaptability.
• Long-Term: If India is planning for the future, Padikkal or Iyer could be groomed as permanent middle-order options, with Patidar also in the frame depending on form.