Leeds, June 20, 2025:
In a heartwarming turn of events, Karun Nair is poised for a sensational return to India’s Test squad today at Headingley, ending an eight-year international exile. The right-handed middle-order batter, once celebrated for his unforgettable triple century against England in 2016, has battled back to earn a spot in the Indian Test squad ahead of India’s first match in the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy.
From Triple-Ton Prodigy to the Wilderness:
Nair burst onto the scene with a blazing 303* in Chennai during just his third Test, becoming only the second Indian ever to score a triple century. But following a lean run of form, he was dropped just three Tests later and vanished from the national radar.
Grinding Back: Domestic Revival and County Stints
Rejected by Karnataka in 2022, Nair turned introspective, posting a heartfelt “Dear cricket, give me one more chance” plea, which resonated on and off the field.
His transformation included grueling training 600 balls a day, close mentorship, and a county stint at Northamptonshire, where he notched up a vital 150 in Division One.
The 2024–25 domestic season was his best yet: 863 Ranji Trophy runs (four hundreds), 779 in Vijay Hazare (five tons), and instrumental figures in Vidarbha’s national title win.
IPL Spark and National A Elevation:
In IPL 2025, representing Delhi Capitals, Nair lit up pitches with a 89 off 40-ball onslaught, showcasing both flair and temperament.
His dominance didn’t go unnoticed earning India A selection for the England tour, prompting former cricketers and fans alike to hail it as “a comeback of the ages”.
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Full Circle: Test Squad Call-Up
In early June, Nair received the cherished call-up to India’s five-Test squad his first Test inclusion since 2017.
Emotional upon selection, he thanked “close ones” for their support and said the news felt “very special, very grateful”.
Special praise has also come from KL Rahul, noting Nair’s perseverance through lonely county stints and his readiness to enrich India’s middle order.
What the Experts Say:
Mohammad Kaif compared Nair’s temperament to legends like Dravid, Laxman, and Pujara ideal for Test lineage.
Anil Kumble suggested he could slot into No. 4, highlighting his county experience as key .
This Is What Makes Nair’s Return So Special:
- Mental Fortitude – Battling rejection, rebuilding state allegiance, county isolation, and relentless daily burn reflects rare grit.
- Red-Ball Richness – Massively productive domestic season shows readiness for quality Test demands.
- Middle-Order Security – With veterans like Kohli and Rohit retired, India seeks solidity; Nair brings technique, skill and adaptability.
As India bursts into the first Test, all eyes will be on whether Karun Nair can translate domestic dominance into international impact. At 33, he’s a mature addition rather than a young prodigy a man reborn. If he delivers, it won’t just mark a personal triumph but will signal India’s evolving bench strength in this new WTC cycle.
