Virat Kohli Retires From Tests: Who Will Replace Him at No 4 for India?

India’s most successful Test captain, Virat Kohli, has recently announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 36-year-old shared the news through an emotional Instagram post on Monday, where he stated that he gave his everything to Test cricket and felt it was the right time to move on.
Kohli played 123 Test matches for India between 2011 and 2025. He scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85. He hit 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries in red-ball cricket. Kohli’s passion and intensity on the field made him one of the best Test players of his generation.
As a captain, he led India to 40 wins in 68 matches, the most by any Indian Test captain. Kohli’s leadership helped India reach new heights in overseas conditions, including the SENA Countries.
He mostly batted at number 4 in his test career. He scored 7,182 runs in 140 innings at an average of 52.50 while batting at the number 4. He also scored 25 centuries and 20 fifties at this number. The replacement of such a consistent batter will not be easy for the Indian team.
The Indian team is just a month away from their next test series. They will be travelling to England for a five-match series starting in June. Now, the big question is who will replace Virat Kohli at no 4 in tests?

Who will replace Virat Kohli at No 4 in Tests?

The impact that Virat Kohli had in tests was something that couldn't be matched by any player; however, there are some players who can match his excellence in red-ball cricket.

Here are the top 3 contenders who can be Virat Kohli replacement at no. 4 in Tests:

KL Rahul

KL Rahul has become India’s saving knight in recent years. He has shown the ability to adapt to different roles in the team. Rahul has opened the innings, batted in the middle order, and even kept wickets when needed. He can be utilised as the perfect Virat Kohli replacement in tests.
Rahul has a solid technique and calm mindset. He has played 58 Tests so far and scored over 3,200 runs. He has hit eight centuries in red-ball cricket. With Kohli gone, Rahul could be a natural fit at number 4. He also has the experience of playing in English conditions.

Shubman Gill

Shubman Gill is seen as the future of Indian batting. The 25-year-old has already played 32 Test matches. He made his debut in Australia in 2020 and impressed with his fearless stroke play. His ability has proven that he could be the Virat Kohli replacement in future.
Gill usually bats as an opener or at number 3. However, a drop to number 4 could bring out the best in him. So far, he has scored over 1,800 Test runs with 5 centuries. His ability to play long innings and handle pressure makes him a strong choice.

Sai Sudharsan

Sai Sudharsan is yet to make his Test debut. But the young left-hander has caught everyone’s eye with his recent performances. He made his international debut in ODIs against South Africa in 2023. Since then, he has played just four international matches.
Sudharsan did well on the India A tour of Australia last year. He also impressed in the IPL with his consistent performances. Selectors could give him a chance in the Test team, especially if they want to try a fresh face at number 4. Sudharsan’s calmness at the crease and solid technique make him a good long-term option. If given a chance, he could make an immediate impact.

Conclusion

India will miss Virat Kohli’s experience and class in the longest format. But the team must now look ahead. With young talents and experienced batters waiting in the wings, the race for Kohli’s number 4 spot is wide open. The upcoming England series will be the perfect test for whoever gets the nod.