Karun Nair Humbled by Second Chance at Test Cricket

Karun Nair’s return to the Test spotlight is a compelling story of perseverance and resilience. At 33, and eight years after his last Test appearance, Nair’s double-century for India A against the England Lions in Canterbury has reignited hope for a comeback to the national side. His words—“very grateful and fortunate”—reflect both humility and determination, underscoring the emotional weight of this moment in his career. Nair had famously scored a triple-century in just his third Test in 2016, but inconsistent form and stiff competition kept him out of the team. His recent performance signals not just form but maturity, making a strong case for a place in the Indian middle order. If he’s included in the upcoming Test squad, it would be a testament to his tenacity and an inspiring chapter for late bloomers in international cricket. 863 runs at 53.93 in a title-winning Ranji Trophy campaign for Vidarbha, showcasing resilience in red-ball cricket. A phenomenal Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored five centuries in eight innings at an average of 389.50, underlining his dominance in the 50-over format. His two-season stint with Northamptonshire in the County Championship was a strategic masterstroke, yielding 736 runs at 56.61 and offering him valuable experience in English conditions—experience that proved vital in Ajit Agarkar’s decision to recall him to the Test side. The emotional gravity of Nair’s return was summed up in Gautam Gambhir’s words: "The amount of runs you've got, the never-give-up attitude—it's inspiring for the entire team. Welcome back, Karun Nair." This comeback also closes a difficult chapter from 2018, when Nair toured England but didn’t play a single Test. To add salt to the wound, he was bypassed for Hanuma Vihari just before the final Test, despite being part of the original squad. Now, seven years later, Nair finds himself not on the bench, but back in the mix—older, wiser, and perhaps hungrier than ever. Whether or not he makes the playing XI, his story is already a stirring testament to perseverance in Indian cricket.