Rishabh Pant is set to play a vital role for India in the upcoming Test series against England. The Indian Cricket Team’s vice-captain, Rishabh Pant, has confirmed the middle-order lineup for the first Test against England. He revealed that captain Shubman Gill will bat at number four, while Pant himself will take the crucial number five spot in the playing XI.
The much-anticipated England vs India Test series is just around the corner, with the opening match scheduled to start on June 20th at Headingley, Leeds. This series also marks the beginning of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle for both teams.
The Indian squad has been in England for about two weeks, working hard on their preparations. Amidst the buildup, there has been significant speculation about India’s final XI, especially with several promising young players in the mix.
One of the biggest talking points has been the No. 4 batting position. This spot previously belonged to Virat Kohli, who recently retired, and he was a key contributor at that position. Given its importance, all eyes will be on who takes over the number four role in this crucial series against England.
Rishabh Pant Confirms Shubman Gill to Bat at No. 4, He Will Bat at No. 5

With the first Test against England approaching, Rishabh Pant has confirmed that Shubman Gill will bat at number four. He also shared his own batting position and mentioned that the team management is still deciding who will take the crucial No. 3 spot.
Speaking at a press conference, Rishabh Pant said, “There is still discussion going on about who will bat at No. 3. Shubman will go in at No. 4, and I will bat at No. 5.”
With the batting positions for Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant now set, the Indian batting lineup is shaping up. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to open the innings, while the No. 3 slot is likely to be filled by either Sai Sudharsan or Abhimanyu Easwaran.
Karun Nair is also expected to be included in the playing XI, with Ravindra Jadeja featuring as the spin-bowling all-rounder. There is likely to be a contest between Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy for the fourth seamer’s spot.