Canterbury, England: Karun Nair, recently recalled to the Indian Test squad after an eight-year hiatus, has wasted no time in making a strong statement, smashing a magnificent double-century (204 runs off 281 balls) against England Lions in the first unofficial Test at Canterbury. This commanding knock comes just days after his surprise inclusion in India’s 18-man Test squad for the upcoming series against England, set to begin on June 20.
A Masterclass Innings from the Comeback Man
Resuming from an overnight score of 186, Nair displayed exceptional composure and strokeplay, converting his substantial Day 1 score into a memorable double-hundred. His innings was laced with 26 boundaries and a six, showcasing his elegance and ability to dominate the opposition attack. Nair’s partnership with Dhruv Jurel (94) for the fourth wicket was particularly crucial, adding 195 runs and laying a solid foundation for India A’s formidable total of 557.
The Long Road Back to the Test Squad
Nair’s return to the national setup has been a journey marked by immense hard work and consistent performances in domestic cricket. After his triple-century against England in 2016, his Test career came to an abrupt halt, leading to a period of struggles and eventually a social media post in December 2022 that read, “Dear cricket, give me one more chance.”
This heartfelt plea ignited a remarkable comeback. He moved to Vidarbha for the 2023-24 domestic season and delivered exceptionally across formats. His Ranji Trophy season saw him amass 863 runs, including four centuries, playing a pivotal role in Vidarbha’s title triumph. He also excelled in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 779 runs with five centuries.
Furthermore, Nair’s stint with Northamptonshire in County Championship in 2023 and 2024, where he scored a double-century against Glamorgan, provided him with crucial experience in English conditions. This consistent red-ball form, coupled with his previous Test experience and the need for an experienced middle-order batsman in the absence of Virat Kohli, ultimately led to his recall.
Sending a Strong Message to the Selectors
This double-century against the England Lions serves as a powerful reminder of Nair’s capabilities and his readiness for the challenges of Test cricket. It reaffirms the selectors’ faith in his ability to perform at the highest level and provides a significant boost to his chances of cementing a spot in the playing XI for the upcoming five-match Test series against England. His performance has certainly made a big statement, silencing any lingering doubts about his form and resilience.
