Virat Kohli retires: 5 players who can change him against England at number 4

Indian cricket team star batter Virat Kohli on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. Several media reports claimed that Virat already gave his verdict to the BCCI, but was able to reconsider his stance. However, Kohli resorted to social media to post an emotional message to express his final decision. Kohli was an interesting time of its retirement as India would take to England in a five -match series in June. As a result of this decision, the selectors have a difficult task to choose the team without the experience of both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

There is a look at 5 potential cricketers who can replace Virat at number 4 against England –

Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan has been a stunning artist in Red-Ball Cricket with his brilliant Ranji Trophy show, which earned him a call-up in 2024. He later caught his opportunity by slamming his young woman ton against New Zealand that year. While he did not get many opportunities against Australia, he can be a strong contender to change Virat Kohli and give the Indian cricket team a stronger order.

KL Rahul

KL Rahul has made a habit of reducing his batting position as per the needs of the team. Rahul has done all this by opening batting to play at number 5 or number 6. With Virat’s retirement leaving a huge hole at number 4, Rahul may once again be considered to take that role. Rahul’s form has recently been very impressive and against England, he can find himself in a new role for the team.

Silver

Certainly a leftist but a partner of Virat’s Royal Challengers Bangalore team’s partner who can find himself as India’s plan for life without Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Patidar has shown his skills against spin for years and his domestic cricket number makes him a good option for No. 4.

Shreyas Iyer

It has been a sensational year for Shreyas Iyer. As a result of a great show in domestic cricket, he received a national call-up and also returned to BCCI Central Contracts. He was sensational in the Champions Trophy and he could become the right candidate to change Virat Kohli at number 4.

Sai Sudhrasan

The continuity of reforms in the ongoing IPL 2025 has shocked both fans and experts. The youth is considered one of the most promising talent in Indian cricket and media reports have already claimed that he was running for a place in the squad for the England series. While he has mostly played as a opener, the selector can see him to use him as number 4 to strengthen the batting.