Karun Nair’s Place in Team India Now Under Threat
Karun Nair’s international comeback is hanging by a thread. Once known for his historic triple century in 2016, the batter is now struggling to justify his place in Team India’s playing XI. In the third Test at Lord’s, Nair managed just 40 and 14 across two innings — a continuation of his underwhelming series.
So far in this England tour, Nair has scored 131 runs in six innings at an average of 21.83. While these numbers aren’t the worst, they pale in comparison to what India needs from a top-order batter in a crucial overseas series. His dismissals — including a misjudged leave in the second innings at Lord’s — have raised eyebrows in the selection camp.
His 303* in Chennai against England, once a symbol of his potential, now feels like a distant past. Though technically sound, Karun hasn’t shown the match-defining ability that the team desperately needs from its number 3 batter.
Sudharsan Waiting in the Wings as Pressure Mounts
With the fourth Test scheduled in Manchester after a 10-day break, Team India has a decision to make. Will they stick with Karun Nair, hoping he finds form in time? Or will they take a bold step and bring back Sai Sudharsan, the young left-hander who debuted at Leeds?
Sudharsan didn’t light up the scoreboard in his first game (0 and 30), but the team management sees long-term promise. His left-handedness also adds variety to an otherwise right-heavy top order.
Captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir now face a classic selection dilemma: experience versus potential. Karun has looked composed at the crease, but Test cricket demands impact — not just presence. Several of his dismissals were due to brilliant fielding or tough luck, but at this level, results are what count.
Karun Nair’s 2024 Test Series Performance
| Test | Venue | Innings | Scores | Highest | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Headingley | 2 | 0, 20 | 20 | 10.00 |
| 2 | Nottingham | 2 | 31, 26 | 31 | 28.50 |
| 3 | Lord’s | 2 | 40, 14 | 40 | 27.00 |
| Total | 6 | 131 | 40 | 21.83 |
Final Word: Do or Die in Manchester?
Karun Nair has the technique, temperament, and experience. But in modern Test cricket, that’s not enough without performance. If he gets one more chance, it could very well be his last to prove he still belongs at the highest level. If dropped, it may not come as a surprise given the rise of hungry young talents.
The fourth Test in Manchester could define the future of Karun Nair’s international career. Will he rise to the occasion or step aside for the next in line?
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