Shubman Gill's decision to bat at number 4 has created a fierce competition between Karun Nair and Sai Sudharsan for the number 3 spot.
Ind vs Eng Test 1st Test: The highly anticipated five-match Test series between India and England commences on June 20th at Headingley, Leeds. This series marks a new era for the Indian team, with Shubman Gill taking over the captaincy after Virat Kohli's departure from Test cricket. Gill confirmed in a pre-series press conference that he will bat at number 4, leaving a significant question mark over the team's batting lineup – who will bat at number 3?
With Shubman Gill relinquishing the number 3 position, two names are prominently vying for this crucial slot: Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair. Both batsmen are in excellent form and appear to be frontrunners for the position.
Sai Sudharsan: Youthful Enthusiasm and Recent Form Strong Contenders
23-year-old Sai Sudharsan is a rising star in Indian cricket. This stylish left-handed batsman has performed exceptionally well in both domestic cricket and the IPL. His class and consistency were particularly impressive in IPL 2025.
In IPL 2025, Sai scored 759 runs in 15 matches, including one century and six half-centuries. His outstanding performance earned him the Orange Cap for the season. Furthermore, he has accumulated 1957 runs in first-class cricket. His technique, patience, and balanced strokeplay make him a b contender for a Test batsman.
His left-handed batting provides valuable diversity to the team, offering a right-left hand combination that could be advantageous against England's pace attack. Team India might field him as a young, aggressive batsman capable of tackling overseas pitches.
Karun Nair: A Wealth of Experience and a Hunger for Redemption
Karun Nair, on the other hand, is a name that has already proven his mettle in Test cricket. He etched his name in history with a triple-century against England in the Chennai Test of 2016. However, inconsistent performances subsequently led to his exclusion from the team. Now, after 8 years, he's back in the Test squad, given a second chance to prove himself.
Karun boasts an impressive experience of 8470 runs in 85 first-class matches, including numerous centuries. He also has 3128 runs in List-A cricket. He demonstrated his utility in IPL 2025, despite limited opportunities, and has consistently scored runs on the domestic circuit.
His biggest strength is his experience. When the team needs a solid number 3 batsman on foreign soil, Karun's technique and understanding make him a b contender.
Shubman Gill's Strategy?
This will be Captain Shubman Gill's first time leading a full Test series. Gill's challenge is not only to lead the team but also to select the right players.
He has already clarified that he will bat at number 4, previously Virat Kohli's position. Therefore, the selection for the number 3 spot will determine the backbone of the batting order.
Experts believe that Gill, being young himself, might opt for a young batsman like Sai Sudharsan to build a b foundation for the future. However, experience plays a significant role in overseas conditions, making Karun Nair a safer option.
Opening Pair: Reliance on KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal
KL Rahul's return provides the team with an experienced opener. Yashasvi Jaiswal has cemented his place with consistently good performances. This pair is likely to open the innings. Both batsmen are adept at aggressive batting and can play a crucial role in avoiding early setbacks against England's bowlers.
Who Will Provide Consistency?
For India to win the Test series in England, the top order's performance will be crucial. The number 3 batsman will provide stability and lay the foundation for big scores. The selectors and team management must decide whether to go with youthful exuberance or experienced reliability.
