3 Players who can Replace Virat Kohli in the Middle Order

Virat Kohli announced his retirement from test cricket, a format he enjoyed playing the most. Indian cricket soared to new heights under his captaincy. He ignited the fire in every player’s heart and also created excitement among the fans. Whether it be his ruthless aggression at Lord’s or the fiery decision to continue the match in South Africa, Kohli made sure Indian cricket never backed down from the fight. His retirement has left a spot open for the others to fight for.

However, the BCCI must realise it’s a big shoe to fill in for anyone considered for the job. Virat’s unparalleled aggression and determination were the reasons behind India performing tremendously well under him. The last few years saw his career taking a hit, but it was still a journey to cheer and applaud the modern-day maestro. Virat ended his career with 123 test matches and 9230 runs, averaging 46.85. He had 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries to his name.

Let’s look at the players who could potentially fill the void left by Virat Kohli:

Shreyas Iyer

Iyer has been rock solid in the middle over in the ODI setup. His ability to play attacking cricket and take on the bowlers makes him one of the threatening players in the coloured jersey. Iyer is in the prime of his career and can maximize the opportunities coming his way. The stats in the whites may not justify his talent and the game-changing ability he brings to the table.

He last played in the whites when England toured India in 2024. He has played 14 test matches and has just over 800 runs at an average of nearly 37. His inconsistency in selection has restricted his potential to flourish at the highest level. With Virat out of the setup now, BCCI can slide Iyer in and give a longer run to show his talent. Iyer’s fielding and captaincy experience at the domestic and the IPL will also be brownie points to the team.

Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan received a huge ovation and support when he finally debuted in the team. Sarfaraz has been unstoppable in the domestic circuit in the last few years, and his hard work bore fruit when he represented India in whites for the first time against England. In 6 matches, Khan has 371 runs, including a century, 3 half-centuries, and averaging nearly 37. The 27-year-old from Mumbai would be hoping for a longer run in the setup and needs to be given consistent opportunities to showcase his caliber. BCCI has shown tremendous faith in him and might he for the number 4.

Dhruv Jurel

Dhruv Jurel impressed the management with his composure and game awareness in just a few of his encounters, especially during the last 2 games of the England test series in 2024. Having debuted against England in 2024, Jurel has been the BCCI’s another trusted youngster who could find a spot inside the lineup. Jurel last played against Australia in Perth, but cannot be judged based on a single opportunity, where he showed great composure during the India A vs Australia A games.

His ability to play long innings and confidently take on the bowlers makes him a treat to watch. With age on his side, Jurel can be considered a replacement for Virat. Moving up the order will also give Jurel ot of opportunities to express himself and establish himself as a regular team member.

These are the three players whom the BCCI can go to for Virat’s replacement. It won’t be easy to fill in the boots, but as they say, the show must go on. These players will look forward to making their names in Indian history and playing a crucial role in the team’s success.