Islamabad, July 28, 2025: Karun Nair Test comeback fizzles out as he’s axed from the XI, still chasing a follow-up to his lone triple-century in 2016
Karun Nair’s much awaited return to Test cricket has ended in disappointment, as the veteran batter was left out of India’s playing XI for the fourth Test at Old Trafford. The decision comes in the wake of Nair’s inability to register a significant score in the first three matches of the ongoing series.
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The 32 year, who was called back after eight year absence from the Test setup, failed to justify the selectors faith. Nair had a regular chance in the top order but could not find form, getting out for low scores and failing to secure his spot.
Nair’s international red-ball career continues to be overshadowed by his standout performance in 2016, when he struck a sensational triple-century against England in Chennai. That historic knock remains his only 50-plus score in Test cricket, a statistic that has now drawn even sharper focus after his recent failures.
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With India looking to gain the upper hand in the series, the team management opted for a reshuffle, prioritizing consistency and form in the batting lineup. Nair’s exclusion opens the door for younger contenders vying for a permanent spot in the middle order.
The spotlight now turns to how the team responds in the crucial fourth Test and whether Nair can work his way back into the squad in the near future.
