Could Karun Nair Become India's Next No. 4?
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Synopsis
Anil Kumble advocates for Karun Nair’s return to the Indian Test team, highlighting his exceptional domestic record. With no stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will Nair step in and fill the critical No. 4 spot? Discover why Kumble believes Nair is the right choice for this pivotal role.
Key Takeaways
- Karun Nair has shown remarkable form in domestic cricket.
- Anil Kumble endorses his return to the national team.
- The No. 4 batting position is critical for the upcoming series in England.
- Nair’s experience in County cricket may benefit him in English conditions.
- Recognition of domestic performance is vital for inspiring young cricketers.
New Delhi, May 14 (NationPress) As the Indian men's cricket team prepares for a significant transition following the retirements of legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket, former captain Anil Kumble has lent his support to Karun Nair for a remarkable return. With the upcoming five-match Test series in England and a considerable gap in the No. 4 position — long held by Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar — Kumble feels Nair could be the ideal candidate to fill in.
India is entering a new phase. For the first time since 1989, when Tendulkar debuted, the team will tour England for a Test series without either Tendulkar or Kohli. The retirement of Rohit Sharma intensifies the middle-order dilemma, prompting the team to devise a fresh batting strategy that may prioritize current form over reputation.
“There hasn’t been enough discussion on who will take the No. 4 spot,” Kumble mentioned on ESPNCricinfo. “During Rohit’s absence in Australia, there was some reshuffling, and KL Rahul took his chance. However, the middle-order remains uncertain, and No. 4 is crucial in England.”
Kumble suggests that the solution might rest with a name that has faded from Indian Test cricket — Karun Nair. The 33-year-old, who last played a Test in 2017, is known for his historic triple century against England in Chennai but unexpectedly lost favor soon after.
“Karun deserves another shot in the Indian team based on his domestic performance,” Kumble remarked. “Experience in English conditions is essential. He has played County cricket and has been there before. Even if he’s past 30, he’s still youthful in cricketing terms.”
The Karnataka-born player, now with Vidarbha in domestic cricket, has enjoyed an outstanding season. In the 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he amassed 779 runs in eight innings, including five centuries—four consecutive—leading Vidarbha to the final. He then excelled in the Ranji Trophy, scoring 863 runs in nine matches, highlighted by a key century and fifty in the final against Kerala, securing the title for Vidarbha.
If Nair returns, it would symbolize a remarkable redemption in Indian cricket. Despite averaging 62.33 in six Tests and recording a historic triple hundred, he was sidelined without a proper opportunity. He was included in the squad for the 2018 England tour but never played.
“If outstanding domestic performance goes unrecognized, it poses a challenge,” Kumble added, underlining that Nair’s inclusion would convey a positive message to domestic players who persist year after year. “If he gets a chance, it will inspire young talents to pursue first-class cricket.”
Point of View
We recognize the importance of nurturing talent from domestic leagues. Anil Kumble’s endorsement of Karun Nair highlights the need for the national team to adapt and evolve. As India prepares for a new era in Test cricket, prioritizing performance over reputation will be crucial for future successes.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Karun Nair's domestic performance like?
Karun Nair has had an outstanding domestic season, scoring 779 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and 863 runs in the Ranji Trophy, showcasing his capability.
What position does Anil Kumble believe Nair can fill?
Anil Kumble believes Karun Nair could effectively fill the No. 4 batting position for the Indian Test team.
Why is the No. 4 position important?
The No. 4 position is often considered crucial, especially in challenging conditions like England, as it is typically occupied by experienced and reliable batsmen.
When did Karun Nair last play for the Indian Test team?
Karun Nair last played a Test match in 2017, where he notably scored a triple century.
What message does Kumble's support for Nair send?
Kumble's support sends a strong message that consistent domestic performance should be recognized and rewarded at the national level.
