IPL 2025: Karun Nair Shares Insights on His Game and Preparations
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Synopsis
Karun Nair, a standout performer for Vidarbha in the domestic circuit, is set to make waves in IPL 2025 with Delhi Capitals. He focuses on honing his game while aiming for consistency to revive his international career.
Key Takeaways
- Karun Nair's impressive domestic performance includes 863 runs at an average of 53.93.
- He emphasizes the importance of playing to his strengths and maintaining a relaxed mindset.
- Nair is eager to learn from his friend KL Rahul and the new captain, Axar Patel.
- His focus remains on contributing to the Delhi Capitals and seizing every opportunity.
- Nair aims to leverage his recent success to push for a return to the Indian national team.
New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) In the midst of numerous Indian batsmen striving to score significant runs in IPL 2025, the spotlight is on Karun Nair as he represents the Delhi Capitals. His recent performance as a run-machine for Vidarbha during the domestic season has set high expectations.
Nair accumulated 863 runs with an average of 53.93, featuring scores of 86 and 135 in the Ranji Trophy final against Kerala, leading Vidarbha to their third title. He also excelled in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he was named Player of the Tournament after scoring 779 runs, including five centuries. Additionally, he was Vidarbha's top run-scorer with 255 runs at a strike rate of 177.08, which included three half-centuries.
With the pitches in Visakhapatnam and Delhi favoring aggressive stroke play and opportunities for big runs, Nair expressed that his aim to thrive on these flat surfaces will be centered around maintaining his preparation and playing style, similar to his domestic season.
“My focus is solely on understanding my game better for this tournament and the team. I aim to play in my own style without trying to emulate others, while also preparing in the same manner,” Nair stated.
“It's essential to maintain strike rates and adapt to the situation, which is critical. The approach is straightforward; I haven’t overthought it. It’s about responding to the ball as it comes,” he added during a round-table discussion organized by the franchise.
Reflecting on the transition since his time with DC in 2015 & 2016, Nair humorously noted, “I’d say I’m just a bit older now and have a better understanding of my game. Beyond that, not much has changed. Back then, it was known as Delhi Daredevils, and now it’s Delhi Capitals. However, my commitment to winning games remains unchanged.”
Rejoining DC also allows Nair to reconnect with his close friend KL Rahul. “We’ve played cricket together since childhood, starting at the same time. It’s great to have him back. We share a solid bond, and I’m eager to see how he prepares for the game these days,” he said.
“He’s had an excellent Champions Trophy and many successful IPL seasons as well. I plan to observe and learn from him regarding his preparation and performance,” he added.
Nair also commented on Axar Patel being appointed as the DC captain. “Axar has been in the game for a long time and is set to be a fantastic captain. He understands all aspects of the game and everyone’s roles. I look forward to meeting him and gaining insights.”
Since IPL 2019, Nair has only participated in eight IPL matches for Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals, but he insists that he has no personal targets within the DC framework. “I want to keep things straightforward. My goal is to remain calm and just react to the situations I encounter. Ultimately, it’s about being prepared. I feel ready and intend to carry the confidence from my recent season into the IPL,” he remarked.
The past two years have been fruitful for Nair, whose last appearance for India was in 2017. After experiencing lows that led him to switch domestic teams from Karnataka to Vidarbha, he now reflects on the lessons learned from both high and low phases.
“I’ve been involved in cricket for a while now. It’s always about navigating ups and downs and how you recover from setbacks while appreciating successes. I’ve learned a lot about myself and how to respond to these circumstances. It’s certainly been a challenging journey.”
“Yet, those experiences have driven me forward and will continue to motivate me as I pursue my goals. They’ve instilled in me a hunger to approach every game with dedication and to maximize every opportunity. I need to be prepared for both highs and lows, and I’m not overthinking it. Right now, I’m focused on preparing effectively,” he explained.
Nair even had a viral tweet where he requested cricket for another chance, and his recent performances have caught the attention of chief selector Ajit Agarkar. As he gears up for IPL 2025, the desire to represent India again remains strong in his thoughts.
“I believe I’m closer than ever. However, I’m unsure about how close I truly am. Regardless, that’s not my sole focus. It’s in the back of my mind, but for now, I must prioritize my preparation for the IPL and contribute to every match I play.”
“My mindset is to stay as relaxed as possible, initiate the tournament positively, and maintain that momentum. Whatever I discover in the early matches, I’ll aim to build on it and enhance my performance. I want to find my rhythm in this tournament and, once I do, I’ll strive to improve it. The ultimate motivation is to represent India. That’s what drives me, and I’m doing everything I can to make it happen. Scoring consistently is key, so I’ll seize every opportunity that comes my way,” he concluded.
