‘Neither Gill, nor Nair’, India’s former batting coach chose this batsman at number-3

Team India, led by Shubman Gill, is gearing up for an important five-match Test series in England, marking a fresh chapter for the side after the retirement of senior players. The team has arrived on English soil with high hopes and a new leadership structure, with Gill taking charge as captain. Before the series begins, the head coach has shared a special message to motivate and prepare the squad for the tough battles ahead in unfamiliar conditions.

One key discussion before the series revolves around India’s batting order, especially the crucial No. 3 position, which has seen different contenders since Virat Kohli’s retirement. Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has expressed his opinion on this matter, suggesting that neither Shubman Gill nor Karun Nair should occupy the No. 3 slot during this England series. Instead, Bangar believes Gill is better suited to bat at number four, where he can play a pivotal role in stabilizing the innings and building partnerships.

Bangar further explains that the No. 3 position should be contested between Sai Sudarshan and Abhimanyu Easwaran, two promising young batsmen who have shown potential in practice matches and domestic cricket. Easwaran, in particular, has impressed with his recent performances, giving the selectors a reason to consider him seriously for this important role. According to Bangar, either Sudarshan or Easwaran will likely get the nod to bat at No. 3, while Shubman Gill will slot in at No. 4. Rishabh Pant will continue at No. 5, followed by Karun Nair at No. 6 if he is selected.

This lineup offers a balance of youth and experience and provides flexibility for India’s middle order. Bangar’s view reflects the need to find the right combination quickly, as England’s bowling attack is expected to be challenging, especially in home conditions known for swing and seam movement.

On the bowling front, India plans to rely on their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to lead the attack. He may be supported by Mohammad Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, both of whom have performed well in recent matches and bring different skill sets to the bowling group. Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep, both fast bowlers, are also eager to make a mark during the intra-squad matches in Kent, which will serve as final practice before the Test series.

Additionally, the team includes two seam-bowling all-rounders, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur, who have impressed in unofficial Tests between India A and England Lions. Both players have showcased their ability to contribute with both bat and ball, and one of them might earn a place in the playing XI depending on the team’s strategy and pitch conditions.

The series opener will take place at the historic Headingley Cricket Ground in Leeds on Friday, June 20. This venue has often been a battleground for memorable Test matches, and India will be looking to start strong on what promises to be a challenging tour.

In summary, Team India’s preparations reflect a period of transition and opportunity. With Shubman Gill leading the side and new faces vying for key positions, the squad is set to prove their mettle against a tough England team. The debate over the No. 3 position highlights the selectors’ effort to find the best fit to stabilize the batting order while maintaining flexibility. With a balanced bowling attack and motivated batsmen, India aims to make a strong impact on English soil during this five-match Test series.