Karun Nair's Injury Scare Ahead of Test Return Against England

Karun Nair is poised for his Test comeback, but an injury scare has emerged following a training session where he was hit by a delivery. The first Test against England is set to begin on June 20 at Headingley, marking a new chapter for the Indian team under captain Shubman Gill. The pitch conditions are expected to favor seam bowlers initially, with weather forecasts predicting possible rain that could impact play. Will Nair be fit to participate in this crucial match? Read on for more details.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2025, 13:11 IST

Karun Nair's Anticipated Test Comeback

Karun Nair is set to make his long-awaited return to Test cricket, but an injury scare has emerged just before the first match. During a training session, Nair was struck on the ribs by a fast delivery from pacer Prasidh Krishna. Although the impact seemed to cause him some discomfort, he quickly resumed batting, suggesting that the injury is not severe.

Upcoming Test Series Details

The highly anticipated five-match Test series is scheduled to commence on June 20, with the opening Test taking place at Headingley in Leeds. This series will signify a new era for the Indian team under the leadership of Shubman Gill, who has taken over the captaincy following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The Indian squad aims for a strong start in their World Test Championship campaign, marking the beginning of the 2025-27 cycle.

Pitch Conditions at Headingley

The pitch at Headingley is known for favoring seam bowlers, particularly in the early stages of a match due to its pace and bounce. The typical overcast weather in Leeds creates ideal conditions for swing bowling, posing a significant challenge for batsmen. As the match progresses, the pitch is expected to flatten, offering some respite to the batters, while spinners like Kuldeep and Jadeja may become more influential as the surface deteriorates.

Weather Forecast and Match Impact

The weather forecast indicates partly cloudy skies with the possibility of light rain on Days 2 and 4, which could lead to interruptions but may also assist bowlers in their efforts.