'Top four is set': Shubman Gill reveals India's No. 5, No. 6 plans ahead of New Zealand ODIs

India’s opening batsman Shubman Gill spoke about the team’s approach to the middle order ahead of the three match One Day International series against New Zealand. He said that the side intends to keep the batting lineup flexible, allowing the No.5 and No.6 positions to be filled by players who are in form and can adapt to the match situation. Gill emphasized that the strategy is designed to give the team depth without compromising the stability of the top order overall.

The No.5 slot traditionally serves as a bridge between the top three batsmen and the lower order, often requiring a player who can rotate the strike and accelerate when needed. The No.6 position, meanwhile, is expected to provide a finishing punch, especially in the final overs of a 50 over game. By not assigning a permanent name to either role, the team can promote players such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rahul Tripathi or Hardik Pandya based on recent performances and the specific conditions of each venue.

The flexible middle order plan gives the Indian side the ability to respond to different pitch speeds and weather patterns that are expected in New Zealand, where swing and seam can be decisive. For Indian cricket followers, the approach offers hope that the team can recover quickly if early wickets fall, and it also provides opportunities for younger players to prove themselves on an international stage. Observers will be watching the first match closely to see which batsmen are handed the No.5 and No.6 jerseys and how they influence the flow of the innings.