How many batters have India tried at No. 3 after WTC Final 2023?

India have endured a mixed campaign in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle. After finishing as runners-up in the first two WTC editions in 2021 and 2023, India failed to qualify for the 2025 final. They are currently fifth in the WTC 2025-27 standings and have nine matches scheduled, including four away games and five at home. India will likely need to win at least six or seven of those matches to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive.

One of India's biggest concerns during this period has been the No. 3 position. Since the 2023 WTC final, India have tried seven different batters at the crucial position. Before that, Cheteshwar Pujara had established himself as a dependable presence at No. 3, often acting as a wall against the opposition's bowling attack. Following his absence from the side, India have struggled to find a long-term replacement.

Shubman Gill has spent the most time at No. 3 among the batters tried during this period. He has played 27 innings and scored 946 runs at an average of 35.03, including two centuries and two half-centuries. However, Gill has been moved down to No. 4 during the current WTC cycle.

India have also experimented with experienced campaigners such as Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, with both players getting two innings at No. 3. Neither could establish themselves as a permanent option in the position.

The team also gave opportunities to Devdutt Padikkal, Karun Nair and Washington Sundar, but they have struggled to make the position their own over the past couple of years. Sai Sudharsan, meanwhile, has received a longer run, batting 12 times at No. 3 and scoring at an average of 31.91.

Padikkal's recent performances could, however, bring him back into contention. After developing his red-ball game through consistent domestic cricket, he produced an impressive 150 against Sri Lanka in Galle, strengthening his case for another opportunity at No. 3.