India’s batting struggles in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy have raised major concerns, particularly after their 184-run loss in the Melbourne Test.

With the series 1-2, the upcoming New Year’s Test in Sydney is a do-or-die match for India to remain in the race for the World Test Championship final. Meanwhile, a win for Australia would confirm their place in the Lord’s final against South Africa in June 2025.

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One of the key areas under scrutiny is India’s batting order, particularly Virat Kohli’s role at number 4. While Kohli has been the backbone of India’s batting for years, his recent struggles have been evident. .

After a brilliant hundred in Perth, he has failed to maintain consistency, scoring only 167 runs in the series at an average of 27.63. Their layoffs have been largely due to over-delivery outside the sector, exposing a recurring weakness.

Why is Nitish Kumar Reddy ranked number 4?

In this scenario, promoting young batsman Nitish Kumar Reddy to the No. 4 spot could be a game-changing move. Reddy has been India’s second-best player in the series, amassing 294 runs at an impressive average of 49.00 in his debut campaign.

Despite batting lower down the order, he has shown remarkable composure and consistency, making a strong case for promotion. His ability to handle pressure could bring much-needed stability to India’s batting line-up in a high-stakes game.

Experts, including former cricketer Basit Ali, believe that a change in the batting order could benefit both the team and Kohli himself.

Basit Ali suggested: “Now is the time to move Nitish up to No. 4 and Virat Kohli to No. 5 because he can’t score at No. 4. He is coming out with the same shot. If you can’t score, go down the order.”

How a lower-order role can help Kohli

Moving Kohli to the No. 5 spot could alleviate some of the pressure he faces at No. 4. With a more stable batting environment, he would have the opportunity to anchor the innings rather than dealing with early swing or bounce when India lose wickets. rapid.

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This could also help him adapt better to the conditions and regain his rhythm, allowing him to play a bigger role in rebuilding the innings.

A slight adjustment to his role could also help him overcome his issues with the outside off-stump, giving him time to assess the players and the delivery before accelerating.

With Australia’s bowlers in top form, India’s batting line-up needs a new approach. Promoting Reddy and moving Kohli down the order could provide a better balance between experience and form, helping the team maximize its chances in the must-win SCG Test.

This tactical adjustment could not only help India but also reignite Kohli’s batting brilliance, which could be crucial for the team’s success.

As India prepares for the final Test, the decisions made in Sydney will not only shape the outcome of the series but will also influence their journey to the final of the World Test Championship.

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