Former England opening batter Michael Atherton expressed his concerns about India's number 4 position in Test cricket following Virat Kohli's retirement. He stated that it would be challenging to find a suitable replacement for Kohli in that role.
Atherton discussed the implications of Kohli's retirement, noting that India is taking a significant step into the future. He mentioned that the team had previously lacked any hesitation in filling the number 4 spot.
"It feels like, at the start of a new World Test Championship cycle, this is the moment for India to begin regenerating and reshaping their team. We're not yet sure who will take Kohli's place at No. 4, and I pity the person who has to follow him, given that we've just witnessed 15 years of Kohli and, before him, Sachin Tendulkar," Atherton stated on Sky Sports.
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Atherton Reflects on Kohli’s and Tendulkar's Legacy
India has enjoyed the services of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli over the past three decades, with both players amassing 81 centuries in Test cricket. Carrying that legacy forward will be a significant challenge for whoever takes on the new number 4 position.
Currently, it is unclear who will fill this role, with KL Rahul and Shubman Gill likely contenders depending on how the top order performs in the upcoming tour of England.
Atherton further shared his admiration for Kohli, stating that he loved watching him bat in this format. He remarked that Kohli was captivating in every one of the 123 Tests he played.
"You couldn't take your eyes off Kohli; that's how I always felt while watching him. It was evident to me that in his retirement statement, he acknowledged the challenges that Test cricket had presented to him. I cherished watching him play throughout his 123 Tests. He poured his heart and soul into Test cricket, and that energy and passion never seemed to fade," Atherton added.
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