Shubman Gill's recent performances in the Test series against England have sparked discussions about his ideal batting position, with some suggesting a return to No. 3 despite his success at No. 4. Gill, who is captaining the Indian side for the first time, has notched up back-to-back centuries against England, silencing doubters about his overseas record.

In the first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Headingley, Gill scored 147, followed by an even more patient and mature hundred at Edgbaston in Birmingham. These achievements place him in a select group of Indian cricketers, including Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar, Mohammed Azharuddin, and Virat Kohli, who have scored a Test century in their first two Tests as captain.

Despite Gill's impressive performance at No. 4, former England captain Nasser Hussain believes that Gill is better suited to the No. 3 position. Hussain, commentating on Sky Sports, drew a comparison between Gill and England's Joe Root, who also spent a significant portion of his Test career at No. 3 before moving to No. 4. Hussain said, "I think some people are just like that, he looks like a natural number three".

The comparison to Joe Root is interesting, considering Root's successful career and adaptability in the batting order. Like Root, Gill possesses the technique and temperament to excel at No. 3, where he can dictate terms against both pace and spin. However, the No. 4 position offers a different challenge, requiring the ability to build an innings and capitalize on opportunities.

Rishabh Pant, the newly appointed vice-captain, has confirmed that Gill will bat at No. 4 in the upcoming five-match Test series against England, with Pant himself batting at No. 5. This decision is part of a significant reshuffle in India's top order, prompted by the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The No. 3 position, however, remains a topic of discussion, with Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair being considered for the spot.

Pant has expressed confidence in his camaraderie with Gill, stating that their off-field friendship will translate into a strong on-field partnership. "I think me and Shubman have a really good camaraderie off the field — especially off the field. If you're good friends off the field, it eventually comes on the field," Pant said. He also noted that their comfort zone with each other will be special for the team.

While Gill has primarily batted at No. 3 in his Test career, he has embraced the challenge of batting at No. 4. As captain, he is also aware of the responsibility of filling the void left by Kohli's retirement. Gill acknowledged the challenge, stating, "It's a big responsibility and we are looking forward to the great challenge that will be presented to us".

Ultimately, whether Gill bats at No. 3 or No. 4, his talent and adaptability will be crucial for India's success in the Test series against England. His recent form and leadership qualities have instilled confidence in the team, and he will be eager to continue his impressive run. The comparisons to Joe Root highlight his potential to become a mainstay in the Indian batting lineup for years to come.