In a striking demonstration of form and tenacity, former Indian cricketer Karun Nair has delivered a masterclass innings in the County Championship, compiling a majestic double century that will be remembered by Northamptonshire and cricket aficionados alike. Playing against Glamorgan, Nair’s unbeaten 202 off 253 balls was a statement of intent from a player who has been away from the Indian national team setup for seven long years.
Nair’s innings came on the third day of Northamptonshire’s 11th match this season at their home ground in Northampton, where he resumed his innings at an unbeaten 55. His stunning display of batting prowess helped the team amass a formidable total score, prompting the Northamptonshire captain to declare the innings at 605/6.
The talismanic batsman had been a notable absentee in the most recent Indian Premier League auction, finding no takers among the franchises. Despite this setback, he has proved his mettle in the longest format of the game, on English shores.
This is not the first time Nair has shown his batting might; his career has been replete with moments that etch his name into the minds of cricket fans. He last represented India in Test cricket in March 2017, during a series on home soil against Australia. Since then, he has struggled to find a place in a competitive Indian middle-order.
His domestic form, however, remained impressive. During the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season, he emerged as Vidarbha’s top run-scorer, amassing 690 runs. His move to join Vidarbha was a fresh start after being released by Karnataka and, with his help, Vidarbha managed to secure a runner-up finish in the Ranji Trophy.
Nair brought his prolific form into the County Championship, and the double century is a testament to his undiminished skill and determination. Following his outstanding performance in England, Nair expressed his continued ambition to make a return to the Indian national team. He acknowledged that although his performance across all formats could have been better, he has been satisfied with the runs he has gathered this season.
The 32-year-old cricketer made it clear that his aspiration to represent India once again burns alive. By consistently putting up strong performances and maintaining his form, Nair believes he is making a strong case for a national team recall.
“I could have gone better in all formats, but having said that, at least this season I have got quite a few runs starting from playing a few games in the County Championship,” Nair articulated post his significant knock in the Ranji Trophy final against Mumbai.
When asked about his prospects for a return to India’s national squad, Nair expressed an unwavering belief in his ability to make a comeback. “One hundred per cent I think I can come back. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be giving my all to play domestic cricket. One hundred per cent I feel I can play for India again,” Nair voiced his optimism.
Karun Nair’s journey from being out of favour in the Indian team to becoming a centurion in the English County Championship is a narrative of resilience. With performances such as his recent double century, he is not just knocking but rather pounding on the doors of the Indian selectors. It epitomizes the never-say-die attitude that epitomizes the very essence of sportsmanship and the enduring spirit of cricket.
