The discussion about Karun Nair has intensified once again. His innings in the Lord's Test raised many questions. India's new number three scored 40 runs in the first innings and only 14 in the second. Should he be retained in the team even after this performance? This question is roaming in the mind of every Indian fan.
The first side clearly says that Karun has worked hard in domestic cricket. He scored around 864 runs in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy. He made his bat talk in the Vijay Hazare as well. The stats with five centuries, double centuries are not built or scripted easily. Scoring a double century in a practice match against England Lions is also no small feat. It is clear from this that Karun still has the hunger to play big innings.
His scores were not big in this series, but the glimpses were good. Look at the innings of 31 and 26 in the Edgbaston Test. He looked comfortable, played proper strokes, and smashed some eye-catching boundaries. Karun also displayed his temperament in the first innings at Lord's, but occupying the crease is not enough; a big innings is needed. This is where the question arises.
Karun was pulled up in the batting order at various positions. The right-hander started the series at number six and was then suddenly promoted to number three. Many experts have said that number three is not his cup of tea. He should be given a chance again at number five or six, as he seemingly looks more comfortable in such a role. Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill have shown faith in Karun so far.
Now look at the other side. He has only amassed 131 runs in six innings. When other batsmen are scoring centuries and double centuries, Karun's failure will hurt. In the second innings of the Lord's Test, he misjudged the line and shouldered arms to an incoming ball, only to be trapped LBW. Technical problems are also coming to the fore. If this continues, India may suffer a big loss in the middle order.
Also, take a look at the young players sitting on the bench. India have Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel and Abhimanyu Easwaran on the bench. Any one of them can be given a chance and deservedly so. Sai is sitting out after one Test. Many people believe that Sudarshan is better for number three. In such a situation, pressure on Karun's position is natural. Fans' impatience is also increasing. Posts are going around on social media - 'Karun Nair is just an old memory.' Some are saying that Lord's could prove to be his farewell. The team is currently tied 1-1 in the series. In such a situation, contributions from every player are necessary.
Still, Karun should get one more chance. It would be right to send him at number five or six in the Manchester Test. This time, a clear message should be given - now or never. If he is unable to play a big innings, then the young players on the bench should get a chance. Our opinion is this - give Karun Nair one last match, give him a chance to bat at the right number and see how much strength he can show. If he fails again, then the team should move forward to bring new energy and freshness. Domestic records and old triple centuries are certainly memorable, but it is the runs on the field in international cricket that make a real identity.
