From Tendulkar To Kohli To Gill: How The Baton Of Number 4 In Test Cricket Has Passed On

Sachin Tendulkar, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli [Source: @ShubmanGill7fc, @Priya_srt10, @cricketcomau/x.com]

India's cricket team prepares for their highly anticipated tour of England, which will start from tomorrow, 20 the June, 2025. The spotlight falls on Shubman Gill, not only because of his new role as the skipper of the Indian team but also for the batting position he is expected to bat in, number four. The 25-year-old batter has the responsibility of carrying a responsibility that has been shouldered by two of the greatest to have ever graced the game.

Shubman Gill inherits a legacy that has spanned nearly three decades and has become synonymous with Indian batting excellence. From Tendulkar to Kohli, the number four position in Test cricket represents the backbone of India's batting strength.

The Golden Standard: Tendulkar's Unmatched Legacy

Sachin Tendulkar walked out to bat number four in the longest format of the game for the first time in 1992. Since then, he made the position synonymous with him. Tendulkar has scored 13,492 runs at the position at an average of 54.40 in 275 innings.

The great man scored 44 centuries and 58 half-centuries while batting at the position in Test cricket. His consistency and adaptability became a symbol of what it means to bat at number four for India.

India's Number 4 Stalwarts Since Tendulkar's Debut

Kohli's Carries Forward The Tendulkar Legacy

When Virat Kohli took over from Tendulkar, the challenge seemed unscalable. Yet Kohli admirably upheld the tradition and scored 7,564 runs at an average of 50.09 with 26 centuries under his belt at the position.

One of the modern greats, Kohli batted 160 innings at number four, thus solidifying the legacy of the position. Kohli ensured that India's middle order functioned with the same solidity and stability as it did when Tendulkar walked out to bat after the fall of two wickets in the whites. 

The England Test: A Historical Challenge

England has been one of the most formidable challenges for the Indian batters.

Performance in England

Even though the conditions tested him, Tendulkar proved his mastery in England, scoring runs at an average of 56.60. Kohli's 1,079 runs in 17 matches demonstrate the fighting spirit the batter had despite the tough questions the English bowlers asked him.

Gill's Golden Opportunity

Shubman Gill now has the chance to write the next chapter in this illustrious story. His elegant batting style and technique, along with his solid temperament, make him a natural heir to this position.

The tough part is not replacing legends but continuing the excellence and legacy they have built. Gill's fluid stroke-making, strong back foot game and composure are the qualities that make him ideally suited for the coveted position.

The Immortal Legacy

This series between India and England represents more than just cricket; it is about a smooth transition and maintaining a tradition of excellence. From Tendulkar to Kohli, the position has earned an elite status. Gill inherits opportunity and not pressure. With foundations leg by legends, he is perfectly positioned to inspire the next generation of Indian batters. 

---

ALSO READ

No Kohli, Rohit: Here Are The Players From 2021 Leeds Test Who Are Still A Part Of Indian Squad

---