Monty Panesar, former England spinner and cricket analyst, has backed Sai Sudharsan to become Virat Kohli’s long-term successor at India’s No. 4 Test position. The prediction comes as India enters a transitional phase in red-ball cricket following Kohli’s departure from the format earlier this year.
Panesar made the remarks during a recent media appearance while assessing India’s upcoming Test tour of England. He singled out Sudharsan, who currently plays for Surrey in the English County Championship, as a technically sound batter with the temperament suited to fill one of the most challenging roles in Indian cricket.
County Experience Boosts Sudharsan’s Case
Sudharsan has impressed in his county stint with Surrey, adapting quickly to English conditions and producing consistent performances in both red and white-ball formats. Panesar noted that his ability to bat for long periods and handle the moving ball makes him a natural contender for India’s Test middle order.
“Sai Sudharsan has the right mix of patience, balance, and mental strength. I see him as the next long-term No. 4 in India’s Test setup,” Panesar said. “He’s learning in tough conditions and showing maturity beyond his age.”
India’s Search for a Solid No. 4
Kohli’s absence has left a significant void at No. 4 — a position that has historically anchored India’s Test batting for decades. While several names, including Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Sarfaraz Khan, have rotated in and out of the spot, no player has yet claimed it definitively.
Sudharsan’s rise comes at an opportune moment. His recent form, including two fifties and a century for Surrey this season, has caught the attention of national selectors, who are closely monitoring India A tours and county performances to shape the next phase of the team’s evolution.
Panesar’s Praise Draws Broader Attention
Panesar’s endorsement has amplified media focus on the young left-hander. As a player who made a smooth transition from IPL success with Gujarat Titans to red-ball discipline in England, Sudharsan’s versatility is becoming one of his key strengths.
Panesar added, “India has plenty of flair, but they’ll need players like Sudharsan to provide backbone. If he keeps working like this, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in the XI soon.”
Selectors Weigh Long-Term Options
With the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle just beginning, India is expected to experiment with its middle order during the upcoming away tours. If Sudharsan continues his strong county run, he could earn a Test call-up within the year.
