Nair’s domestic supremacy and tenacity have landed him a spot in India’s squad for the forthcoming Test series against England, which begins in Leeds on June 20, despite the suggestion.
Karun Nair’s Relentless Comeback: A Story of Grit, Runs, and Redemption
Karun Nair, once a rising star in Indian cricket, has rewritten his narrative with sheer determination and unmatched consistency. Despite being advised to give up and chase financial stability through T20 leagues, Nair chose the hard road — the road back to the Indian Test team.
“I was never going to give up on playing for India again,” Nair revealed in a candid interview with the Daily Mail. “Regardless of the money, I knew I’d be kicking myself for giving up that easily.” These words reflect the mindset of a cricketer who refused to let circumstances dictate his destiny.
Dominance in Domestic Cricket and England’s County Scene
Nair’s comeback hasn’t been a fluke — it’s been built on a mountain of runs across formats and continents.
In two County Championship seasons with Northamptonshire, he scored 736 runs at an average of 56.61, including a memorable double century against Glamorgan. His ability to adapt to English conditions was a strong signal of his readiness to return to the highest level.
Back home, his 2024–25 Ranji Trophy season with Vidarbha was nothing short of spectacular. He amassed 863 runs at an average of 53.93, playing a pivotal role in Vidarbha’s title-winning campaign. These consistent performances have made it impossible for selectors to overlook him any longer.
Heroics in the Vijay Hazare Trophy
Before heading to England, Nair made waves in India’s premier 50-over competition.
He smashed five centuries in just eight innings during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, maintaining a staggering average of 389.50 — a statistic that’s hard to believe but impossible to ignore.
To top it off, he delivered a powerful statement in the unofficial Test between India A and England Lions, scoring a brilliant double-hundred and showcasing his long-format credentials.
A New Role Awaits in the Indian Test Side?
With Shubman Gill set to move down to number four in the batting order following Virat Kohli’s retirement, India’s number three spot is now vacant — a crucial position in the Test lineup.
Karun Nair has emerged as the front-runner for the role, especially after his recent double-century while batting at one down.
While Abhimanyu Easwaran and Sai Sudharsan are also in the fray, Nair’s form, experience, and temperament make him a compelling choice to anchor India’s top order.