Karun Nair’s redemption arc is getting derailed as he remains the only designated top-six batter in the Indian line-up without a fifty in the ongoing Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy 2025.
Karun made a noteworthy comeback when cricket gave him another chance, as he was added to the squad for the England tour. His start was promising; he smashed a double hundred in the unofficial Test for India A against the England Lions. Since then, however, his form seems to have dipped. So far, his contribution in the series has been minimal compared to every other player in the lineup.
Karun’s Inability to Convert Starts Raises Serious Concerns
One of the biggest challenges Karun has faced this series is maintaining his concentration. He usually begins well, timing the ball nicely, looking composed in defence, and adapting to conditions with ease. But just when it seems he's set for a big score, he loses his way.
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Whether it's falling to a loose delivery or playing a poor shot, he hasn't been able to capitalise on his starts. His latest dismissal at Lord’s, in the second innings while chasing a tricky target, was no different and sparked strong criticism from experts, many of whom questioned his decision-making at the crease.
Karthik and Atherton Criticize Karun Nair’s Questionable Shot Selection
Dinesh Karthik was furious on air, reacting to Karun’s dismissal and highlighting his poor judgment in leaving the ball that cost him his wicket:
"I don't know what he was thinking. Karun Nair expected the ball to probably swing away, but it didn't; it just held its line, kept coming straight. Pretty ordinary leave. Brydon Carse is loving it, it's an important wicket," DK said on air.
England legend Michael Atherton added to Karthik's observations, criticizing Nair’s lack of awareness:
"It's a very strange leave from Karun Nair. Particularly at the end, he's batting the pavilion end, so you know naturally the ball is going to run back in at you, down the slope. So it's an odd leave," Atherton noted.
Karun Nair’s fairytale return is starting to fade, and he will be under pressure heading into the next match, with questions looming over his place in the side. Having scored only 131 runs at an average of 21.83 in six innings, he may be replaced by either Abhimanyu Easwaran or Sai Sudharsan at No. 3. The final decision rests with Coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Shubman Gill ahead of the fourth Test in Manchester.
Stay tuned for more updates on India’s tour of England 2025.
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