In a bold move signaling a generational shift, Team India has officially handed the No.4 and No.5 Test batting slots to Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant respectively, with Gill assuming the captaincy and Pant stepping in as his deputy. This decision is more than just a tactical reshuffle — it’s a declaration of India’s future direction in red-ball cricket. The two young stars, both under 30, are now entrusted with not only steering India’s batting in the critical middle order but also guiding the team through a transitional era after the partial exits of stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the format.
Shubman Gill’s elevation to the No.4 spot is particularly symbolic. This is the same position that Virat Kohli occupied for over a decade, becoming synonymous with India’s batting resilience. Filling those shoes is a daunting task, but Gill has shown all the signs of being ready. A naturally stylish stroke-maker with a solid temperament, Gill has amassed centuries in Australia, Bangladesh, and at home. His adaptability across conditions and formats makes him a prime candidate to anchor the innings at No.4, where patience and flair must coexist. As captain, his responsibilities multiply, but he appears prepared for the challenge, having already displayed leadership skills in domestic cricket and the IPL.
Rishabh Pant’s comeback as vice captain and his return to the No.5 slot is equally momentous. After a horrific car accident that sidelined him for over a year, Pant’s resurgence has been a story of grit, rehabilitation, and unshakable belief. Known for his fearless approach and match-winning abilities in Test cricket — particularly in Australia and England — Pant brings an X-factor that few wicketkeeper-batters in world cricket currently offer. His placement at No.5 offers a perfect foil to Gill’s more composed style at No.4, creating a left-right combination and adding balance to the middle order.
This new structure also represents India’s intent to invest long-term in a young core. With Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane no longer in the mix and Virat Kohli stepping away from Tests, the team management has decided not to go the conservative route of recalling seniors. Instead, it is backing talent that has already shown mettle under pressure. Pant’s leadership qualities were always hinted at, and his vice-captaincy could be a stepping stone to bigger responsibilities in the future.
What makes this transition even more exciting is the complementary nature of Gill and Pant’s games. Gill is technical elegance personified, while Pant thrives on audacity. Together, they can control sessions, counterattack, and shift momentum. Their ability to lead from the front will also be crucial in shaping the team culture and mentoring newer players in the squad.
With a packed calendar ahead, including a home series against New Zealand and away fixtures in Australia, this duo’s mettle will be tested quickly. But the signals from the dressing room are clear: this is their time, and Indian cricket is backing them wholeheartedly.
The future of Indian Test cricket has arrived — and it’s wearing the confident faces of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant.
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