Karun Nair Embraces Opportunity to Shine in England Test Series

Karun Nair is making a significant return to the Indian Test team after eight years, with the support of childhood friends KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna. As he prepares for the upcoming Test series against England, Nair reflects on his journey, the importance of setting goals, and the joy of representing his country again. His impressive performance in the domestic season has paved the way for this opportunity, and he is eager to make the most of it. Discover more about Nair's inspiring comeback and his thoughts on the game.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 20, 2025, 12:20 IST

Karun Nair's Return to the Indian Test Team

Karun Nair, on his journey back to the Indian Test squad, expresses that having childhood friends KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna around him in the dressing room brings a sense of ease as he aims to seize this opportunity after an eight-year hiatus.

The upcoming five-match Test series against England, commencing this Friday, presents a crucial chance for Nair to secure his position in the team, years after he made history as only the second Indian batsman to achieve a triple century in Test cricket.

Nair shared his approach, stating, "I keep things straightforward, focus on the positives, set specific goals, visualize my success, and truly believe in those visions."

He added, "Playing with Rahul and Prasidh is comforting. We've been playing cricket together since childhood and have grown up side by side," as he mentioned in a video interview with the BCCI.

Both Nair and Rahul, now 33, have a long history of playing age-group cricket together and have maintained a close friendship.

"Life has come full circle for me; I was dropped from the team in England, and now I'm making my return there. It's been a long journey, and I welcome it," Nair reflected.

After being excluded from the Indian team in 2017, he recalled, "My immediate thought upon waking up after being dropped was my desire to play Test cricket again for India. That motivation kept me driven and eager to train every day."

"I set a goal to return to Test cricket. Each morning, I would think about what steps I needed to take to achieve that goal. Maintaining that belief and having a target was crucial for my progress," he added.

During the 2024–25 domestic season, Nair scored 863 runs in nine matches at an impressive average of 54, leading Vidarbha to their third Ranji Trophy title.

This successful season revitalized his Test career, allowing him to rejoin the Indian Test team for the England tour.

"I feel more patient and forgiving towards myself now. I've learned to appreciate the little things and to be true to myself. I keep my approach simple, focusing on the positives, setting goals, visualizing success, and having genuine belief," Nair stated.

"It’s an honor to wear this jersey and represent my country." He realized the significance of his return to the Indian team when he met the touring squad.

"Seeing everyone for the first time made me realize that I am finally back in the team. Until that moment, it felt like a long wait to feel that I had made it again," he explained.

"After years of watching my teammates on TV, being back in this dressing room is incredible. I cherish the camaraderie, the joy of wearing this jersey, and the excitement of striving to win matches for our country alongside my teammates."