Karun Nair has made headlines again in domestic cricket. The Karnataka batter hit his second century in just his third Ranji Trophy match of the 2025-26 season, sparking debate about whether he deserves another shot in India’s Test squad.
Nair in Red-Hot Form
With the India-South Africa Test series starting on November 14, fans and selectors are watching closely. Nair began the season with 73 against Saurashtra, followed by an unbeaten 174 against Goa, and now 102* off 163 balls against Kerala. His consistency and ability to build big innings stand out.
Long Road Back to the National Team
Nair’s return to international cricket has been slow and challenging. After a nine-year gap, he made a comeback during the England tour, scoring just over 120 runs at an average in the mid-20s, including one fifty. He showed promise but couldn’t convert starts into big scores and was dropped after the West Indies series.
Competing Against Younger Players
Now, Nair faces competition from younger names like Sai Sudharsan, who is currently part of the India A vs South Africa A series. Sudharsan’s modest scores make Nair’s domestic form even more impressive. Yet, the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar seems to favour youth, leaving Nair’s future uncertain.
Focus on Ranji Trophy Success
For now, Nair’s focus remains on the Ranji Trophy. His recent performances prove he still has the technique, patience, and temperament to succeed at the highest level. If he keeps scoring, a recall might still be possible in the upcoming series or later in the season.
Fans Divided on His Future
Reactions among fans are mixed. Some believe Nair deserves another opportunity for his consistent run-making. Others feel it’s time for him to move on. Regardless of selection, his back-to-back centuries underline his value and determination.
A Story of Persistence
Karun Nair’s journey reflects the struggle many domestic stars face despite performing consistently. Whether or not the selectors notice, his current form shows he still has much to contribute to Indian cricket.
