Karun Nair’s Struggles in Test Cricket
After an eight-year absence, Karun Nair made a comeback to the Indian Test team following a stellar Ranji Trophy season. He impressed initially with a double century during the India A tour but struggled during the actual series, scoring only 131 runs in six innings at an average of 21.83, without a single half-century.
Return and Removal from the Team
Despite his efforts, Nair’s performance did not meet expectations, leading to his exclusion from the Test match in Manchester. In his place, Sudharsan returned to the XI after being dropped earlier following the series opener in Leeds. This decision came after India’s defeat and subsequent strategic changes in the team lineup.
Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar mentioned Nair’s plea for another chance in a viral tweet, expressing disappointment at his inability to capitalize on the opportunity given to him by cricket.
Future Prospects and Team Changes
The question now remains whether India will retain Nair for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies, scheduled for October 2025 in Ahmedabad and Kolkata. Meanwhile, England’s Ben Stokes chose to bowl first in Manchester, a decision that has historically not favored teams at Old Trafford.
India’s track record at the venue is also under scrutiny, having never won a Test match there in nine attempts, with a history of defeats and draws.
It will be interesting to see how Nair’s story unfolds in the coming days and whether he can regain his form and secure a spot in the Indian Test team.
