Karun Nair to Be Replaced at No. 3 in Lord's Test
India’s team management is reportedly planning a key change for the upcoming Lord’s Test against England. After right-handed batter Karun Nair failed to impress in the first two Tests, there are talks of bringing back young left-hander Sai Sudharsan at the crucial No. 3 position.
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar questioned the decision to drop Sai Sudharsan after just one Test match, especially given his promising performance in the second innings. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar said, “There were some very interesting selections made in the last game which I didn’t agree with. Sai Sudharsan played pretty okay. I’d like to stick with him.”
Manjrekar further stated that Karun Nair may not be the right fit for the number three slot and supported the idea of trying Sai in that position instead. “Karun Nair is not a number three player in my book,” he remarked.
Sai Sudharsan Likely to Return, Nair May Bat Lower
Manjrekar, while pushing for Sudharsan’s return, also acknowledged the emotional value of Karun Nair’s comeback. “I would like Karun Nair to get one more chance just because of the story around his selection and comeback,” he noted. However, he suggested that Nair might be better suited to a lower position in the batting order.
He also mentioned that Nitish Kumar Reddy could make way in the lineup if changes are made. “Maybe Nitish Kumar Reddy could make place for him down the order,” he added.
With India aiming to take the lead in the five-match series, captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir may consider these adjustments seriously. The final call is expected before the third Test begins at Lord’s later this week.
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