Former Australian captain and legendary batsman Ricky Ponting has made a significant suggestion regarding Team India’s new Test skipper Shubman Gill.

In a conversation with the ICC, Ponting said that Gill should bat at number four in Test cricket, especially now that he has the added burden of captaincy.

“His white-ball form has been outstanding, but there’s still some work to be done in red-ball cricket,” Ponting said. “Being a young captain and opening the batting in Tests is a tough combination. Batting at number four could allow him more time to settle and lead more effectively.”

Why No. 4 Matters

The No. 4 position in Test cricket is often considered the backbone of the batting order. It’s where legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Ricky Ponting himself have thrived. Gill has mostly opened or batted at number three in Tests so far, but many believe a move to number four could help him stabilize his form and shoulder leadership responsibilities better.

Gill has already made his mark in ODIs, scoring 2775 runs in 55 matches at an impressive average of 59.04, including eight centuries and a double hundred.

As India prepares for the high-stakes Test series against England, Ponting’s advice could prove valuable for both Gill and the team’s long-term strategy.

IND vs ENG 1st Test: June 20–24, Lord’s, London

IND vs ENG 2nd Test: June 28–July 2, Trent Bridge, Nottingham

IND vs ENG 3rd Test: July 10–14, Headingley, Leeds

IND vs ENG 4th Test: July 18–22, Old Trafford, Manchester

IND vs ENG 5th Test: July 26–30, The Oval, London

IND vs ENG 5th Test: July 26–30, The Oval, London