Karun Nair is scripting one of the most compelling comeback stories in Indian cricket. Once known primarily for a single, sparkling triple century in Test cricket, Nair has now backed that historic feat with an extraordinary run of form in England. His recent exploits include a commanding double century in county cricket and another majestic double hundred for India A. With each outing, Nair has sent a clear and resounding message to selectors: he’s not done yet.
Back in December 2016, Karun Nair made headlines across the cricketing world by scoring an unbeaten 303 against England in Chennai. At just 25 years old, he became only the second Indian to score a triple hundred in Test cricket, joining the elite company of Virender Sehwag. Yet, despite this landmark achievement, Nair’s Test career never truly took off. He was in and out of the team and eventually faded from the national radar altogether.
But true grit often reveals itself in silence and hard work, and Nair has embraced the grind far away from the international limelight. This summer in England, he has caught the attention of cricket followers once again. His county stint saw him register a brilliant double century, a sign that his game was in peak condition. He followed that up by donning India A colours and delivering another monumental innings – a double hundred against the England Lions.
In the four-day match for India A, Nair compiled a sublime 204, an innings built with patience, skill, and a deep understanding of English conditions. He struck 26 boundaries and a six, anchoring the innings with maturity and composure. His knock was the cornerstone of a massive India A total and reminded everyone of the player who once promised so much in whites for India.
As he reached the 200-run milestone, Nair’s celebration was both emotional and telling. He raised his bat, then gently kissed the Indian badge on his helmet – a silent tribute to the jersey he’s been fighting to reclaim. It wasn’t showy or theatrical, but it carried immense emotional weight. That gesture said everything that words didn’t need to.
Nair’s resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time. With the Indian Test middle order undergoing changes and several experienced names phasing out, the door is slightly ajar for a composed, technically sound batsman like him to stake a serious claim. His performances in challenging English conditions – long considered the litmus test for batting class – make his case even stronger.
The story of Karun Nair is no longer just about a triple century. It’s about persistence, self-belief, and undying love for the game. It’s about falling out of favour and still choosing to work silently until the cricketing world is forced to take notice once more.
If the selectors are watching – and they most certainly are – Karun Nair has done everything right to be back in serious contention. His bat is doing the talking, louder than ever, and his timing – both on the field and off it – could not be better.