Nair accumulated an impressive total of over 800 runs during a successful Ranji Trophy campaign with Vidarbha, along with nearly 750 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where his team claimed the runners-up position to Karnataka in January.
With the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, significant gaps have emerged in India’s batting lineup. Karun is a leading candidate for a spot in the starting XI and has bolstered his case following a strong performance for India A against England Lions, recording a double century in the first unofficial Test.
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“Karun’s form is fantastic for domestic cricket. Youngsters will recognize its significance. When you perform well there, opportunities are always open. It’s beneficial to have Karun’s experience; he’s played county cricket and is currently in excellent form. His knowledge will be invaluable. Importantly, we won’t assess someone based on one or two Test matches. A player who has scored many runs deserves a substantial opportunity,” Gambhir stated at the pre-series press conference.
The 33-year-old boasts considerable experience in first-class cricket, having played 115 matches and amassed 8415 runs at an average of 50.08. Nair has recorded 24 centuries and 36 half-centuries in this format.
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Additionally, he has participated in 10 county matches for Nottinghamshire over the past two years, showcasing his ability to adapt to new English pitches at this time of year when conditions typically offer greater assistance and movement.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
