Karun Nair, the batter from Vidarbha, has exhibited extraordinary performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing a total of 664 runs across merely six innings. His impressive record features five centuries and a striking strike rate of 120.07, with Nair being dismissed only once. This outstanding achievement has positioned him as the leading run-scorer in the tournament to date.

In light of his exceptional displays, Nair's name has re-emerged in cricket discussions, with numerous social media users advocating for his reinstatement in international cricket. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh elaborated on Nair's situation, noting that he gained widespread recognition after scoring a triple century in a home Test against England in December 2016; however, he participated in only three additional Tests before being excluded from the team.

"I am reviewing his statistics. In the 2024/25 season, he played six innings, and remained not out in five of them, scoring 664 runs, which reflects his average. He has maintained a strike rate of 120. Yet, he remains unselected. This is unjust," Harbhajan remarked on his official YouTube channel.

The former spinner also raised concerns regarding the selection criteria, highlighting that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are being encouraged to participate in the Ranji Trophy due to their poor form, while those excelling in domestic competitions are overlooked.

In 2024, Nair also achieved notable success in first-class cricket, concluding the season with 1,466 runs at an average of 44.42. His performance included four centuries and seven fifties, with a top score of 202*. Furthermore, Nair made a significant impact in England's county cricket with Northamptonshire, accumulating 487 runs in seven matches at an average of 48.70, which featured one century and three fifties.

"Many players are selected based on just two matches, while others are chosen primarily due to their IPL performances. So, why are the standards different for him? People argue that Rohit and Virat are out of form, yet they are being sent to Ranji. But those who are performing in Ranji and scoring runs… why are they being ignored? When will these players get their chance? They are consistently scoring runs here.

"I have never comprehended the rationale behind his exclusion."

Harbhajan unfiltered

Harbhajan expressed his views candidly, asserting that there exist “different rules for different players.”

"He traveled to England with the team but did not participate in any matches. For the fifth Test, they even brought in a player from India, presumably Hanuma Vihari, who played instead of Nair. What justifies this decision? Does it make logical sense?

“There are different standards for different individuals… this should not be the case. When players are performing well, they deserve to be included, correct? Is it because he lacks tattoos or does not wear extravagant attire that he is overlooked? Does he not put in the effort?” Harbhajan questioned.

Nair is set to compete for Vidarbha on Thursday as they face Maharashtra in the second semi-final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Read Also: Bavuma Calls for ICC Reform: Addressing Test Match Disparities

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