‘When Am I Going to Get a Game?’: Karun Nair’s Persistent Push Pays Off

‘When Am I Going to Get a Game?’: Karun Nair’s Persistent Push Pays Off

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Karun Nair continues to impress on all fronts. Following an explosive performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and maintaining his momentum in the Ranji Trophy, Nair is now making a significant impact in the IPL 2025, marking his return to the tournament after a three-year hiatus. Last participating in the Indian Premier League in 2022, he was acquired by the Delhi Capitals during the mega-auction last December for his base price of ₹50 lakh, likely due to his outstanding domestic season. While it was possible that Nair might not have played extensively throughout the season, he made his presence felt in a memorable way for the Delhi Capitals.

Nair scored an impressive 89 runs against the Mumbai Indians while chasing a target of 205. He was on track to lead his team to victory, but his dismissal, coupled with a dramatic last-over collapse that resulted in three run-outs, dashed both the team's and Nair's hopes. Nevertheless, his performance was sufficient to secure his position in the Playing XI for the upcoming matches. In the dressing room, assistant coach Hemang Badani praised Nair's determination and highlighted his eagerness throughout the season.

"This young man hasn't participated in the IPL for the past three years. He has achieved nine First-Class hundreds this year and was eager for an opportunity. He was constantly asking me, 'When will I get to play? Will I be included in this match?' Even during practice, he requested extra time in the middle. His enthusiasm to play was truly remarkable," Badani remarked.

Karun Nair's stellar run

Nair is currently experiencing an unprecedented level of performance. He is India's only other Test triple-centurion since Virender Sehwag, and it has been eight years since he last represented the national team. Few players who have achieved a triple century face such a long absence from the squad, but the competition within the batting lineup is fierce. Amol Muzumdar can attest to this. A few years back, Nair's tweet, "Cricket, give me one more chance," resonated deeply with fans, more than any other message he had shared. When the opportunity finally presented itself, Nair seized it wholeheartedly and has been persistently seeking the selectors' attention since then.

His most promising opportunity arose in January when the BCCI's selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, was tasked with selecting India's squad for the Champions Trophy. Agarkar acknowledged that while Nair's name was mentioned, that was the extent of the discussion. At 33 years old, it remains uncertain if Nair will don the Indian jersey again, but his impressive performances in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and now the IPL indicate that he is on the path back to the national team.

"Your performance out there demonstrated positivity, intent, game awareness, and a clear understanding of which bowlers to target and how to approach them. Excellent job, fantastic mindset. Let’s keep this momentum going. Karun Nair, after three years, scored 89," remarked Badani.

Read Also: IPL 2025: Chahal Leads PBKS to Remarkable Comeback Victory

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