With Virat Kohli’s potential retirement on the horizon, India must find a solid replacement in the Test middle order. Promising talents like Sai Sudharsan, Shreyas Iyer, and Karun Nair have shown strong domestic and international performances, positioning themselves as key contenders to fill the void in Kohli’s absence.
1. Sai Sudharsan
Tamil Nadu’s left-handed batter Sai Sudharsan has shown remarkable progress in recent years, establishing himself as a promising talent for the Indian team. His current form in IPL 2025 has impressed many, and his mature approach to batting is evident. He has played four white-ball matches for India, scoring two half-centuries in three innings. He excels against both spin and pace and has played 29 first-class matches, amassing 1,957 runs at an average above 55, including seven centuries.
2. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer’s return to international cricket has been nothing short of spectacular. From being dropped from the BCCI central contract to becoming India’s top run-scorer in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, his comeback has been remarkable. He has improved his short-ball game and has become better against pacers, making him a strong contender for India’s middle-order in Test cricket. His consistent form in IPL 2025 positions him for a spot in the upcoming England tour.
3. Karun Nair
Karun Nair, one of only two Indian batters to score a triple century in Tests, had a stellar start to his career in 2016 but later lost his place due to poor performances. However, his recent excellent form across all domestic formats has brought him back into the conversation. His experience and proficiency in red-ball cricket make him a strong contender for India’s Test middle-order, potentially replacing Virat Kohli.
