Karun Nair Tipped to Succeed Kohli at No.4 in India’s Test XI: Anil Kumble Backs the Veteran

With Virat Kohli announcing his retirement from Test cricket, India faces a significant void in their batting lineup—particularly at the crucial No.4 spot. This position, long regarded as the cornerstone of India’s batting strength, has been held by legendary cricketers such as GR Viswanath, Dilip Vengsarkar, Sachin Tendulkar, and most recently, Kohli himself.

Now, with the spot wide open, former India captain and coach Anil Kumble believes it's time for Karun Nair to step up.

THE LEGACY OF INDIA'S NO.4 SPOT

For nearly three decades, India's No.4 batting position has been more than just a spot in the order—it's been the domain of the team's best batter. Tendulkar made it iconic with his 15,921 Test runs and 51 centuries. After his retirement in 2013, Kohli seamlessly took over the mantle, amassing 9,230 runs and 30 centuries before calling time on his red-ball career.

With Kohli now out of the picture, the selectors must choose carefully who inherits this legacy.

WHY KARUN NAIR? KUMBLE MAKES A STRONG CASE

Kumble, speaking to ESPNcricinfo, emphasized the need for experience and recent form over age or hype. He pointed to Nair’s impressive domestic season and his prior exposure to English conditions through county cricket.

"I don't think anyone has really thought through who should bat at No.4," Kumble said. "Karun deserves a comeback with the kind of domestic form he’s shown. He has experience, he's played in England, and despite being over 30, he's still got the hunger and time to contribute meaningfully—especially across the next two WTC cycles."

NAIR’S RED-HOT FORM IN DOMESTIC CRICKET

Nair has been in sensational touch across formats. In the 2024–25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he scored a staggering 779 runs in nine matches at an average of 389.50, including five centuries. His red-ball form was equally impressive—scoring 860 runs at 57.33 in the Ranji Trophy, including four centuries. His twin knocks of 135 and 85 in the final helped Vidarbha clinch the title.

Having previously scored a historic triple century against England in 2016, Nair is no stranger to big-stage performances.

"At least I feel I’m closer to a Test return rather than further away," Nair admitted. "It’s at the back of my mind, but I’m focused on performing whenever I get a chance."

WHO ELSE IS IN CONTENTION FOR NO.4?

While Nair is Kumble's preferred choice, he isn’t the only contender.

- KL Rahul: Known for his versatility, Rahul could be a stopgap solution at No.4, but his long-term consistency in the format remains under scrutiny.

- Shreyas Iyer: Has shown flashes of brilliance, but concerns around technique and fitness could limit his chances.

- Sarfaraz Khan: A domestic giant, but yet to be fully convinced at the international level.

- Shubman Gill: Already a key figure in India’s top order, moving him to No.4 would open up the opening spot.

- Sai Sudharsan: The Tamil Nadu batter has impressed across formats and could be tried at the top if Gill or Rahul are pushed down the order.

A CALL FOR MERIT-BASED SELECTION

Kumble also urged selectors not to confuse performances in white-ball formats with Test cricket readiness.

"You can’t mix formats when making these decisions. Players like Sudharsan have to be judged on their first-class credentials, not T20 or ODI form," Kumble said. "If domestic cricket performances are not rewarded, it sends the wrong message to aspiring cricketers."

FINAL THOUGHTS

With India set to face England in a crucial Test series starting June 20, the decision regarding the No.4 spot could have a lasting impact on the team’s future. Karun Nair’s form, experience, and hunger make him a compelling candidate, especially as India enters a transitional phase without stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Now, it’s up to the selectors to make the bold but logical call.