Number Three in Cricket: The Most Versatile Batting Position
Number three is considered cricket's most versatile batting position — required to bat either with the openers (if one falls early) or consolidate an excellent start. Learn what makes a great number three.
Why Number Three Is Unique
Number three (or 'first drop') is the most demanding batting position in Test cricket. If an opener falls on the first ball, the number three must face the new ball — essentially opening the innings themselves. If the openers build a 100-run stand, the number three arrives with a softer ball but still needs to continue the momentum. No other position requires such adaptability.
Qualities Required
- Able to handle the new ball (in case of early wicket)
- Can consolidate a good start without being defensive
- Technically sound against both pace and spin
- Mentally flexible — adjusting mindset based on match situation
- Often the team's best or second-best batter
Famous Number Threes
Some of cricket's greatest players have batted at three. Donald Bradman occupied the position for most of his career. Ricky Ponting batted at three for Australia from 1997 to 2012. Sachin Tendulkar shifted between opener and number four but was at his best dropping in at three. Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli defined the position for their respective teams in the 2010s. Kohli retired from Test cricket in May 2025; Shubman Gill has assumed the number 3 role for India.
Frequently asked questions
Is number three the best batting position?
Many analysts argue number three faces the most balls per innings across a career, giving the player more opportunity to score and contribute than any other position. It is widely regarded as the most important individual batting position.
Who bats at number three in T20 cricket?
In T20 cricket, number three is often an aggressive player who can bat throughout the innings — able to attack from ball one if the openers fall early or play a holding role if needed. Virat Kohli has batted at three for India in T20Is.