Former cricketers and fans have questioned Karun Nair‘s performance at No. 3 as India trail England 1-2 in the five-match Test series. Former India wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer has criticised Karun Nair and advised the team management to reassess their combination before the must-win fourth Test at Manchester on July 23.
After eight years, Karun Nair returned to the Indian Test team after a great 2024–25 home campaign, but he has unable to match that success internationally. The 33-year-old hit 863 Ranji Trophy runs and 779 Vijay Hazare Trophy runs. In three Tests against England, the batter has scored 131 runs at 21.83, with a top of 40. Despite promising beginnings in a few innings, he has failed to score big.
“Karun Nair has great 20s and 30s. Nair scored 30 elegant runs, cover drives, etc.
A stunning 30 from a No. 3 is unlikely. You must receive a bad 100. You need board runs. You must score more. Expect more “Engineer told TOI.
Choose the best XI: Farokh Engineer
The former said the No. 3 position required consistency, fighting force, and long innings. India wanted to level the series, therefore the former urged selectors and team management to field the best XI and back Sai Sudharsan, who scored 30 in the second innings in the first Test. Benching the southpaw made room for another all-arounder.
“Pick the best XI. I rarely see Sai Sudharsan. You must choose the finest player for now. Who will offer you most? You play for your nation. Your honour is at risk. My advice: ignore age. Play him to win this Test if he’s good “added.
In contrast, India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate criticised Nair’s lack of huge runs but justified his inclusion.
“We enjoy Karun’s rhythm and tempo. More runs from the three. But the crucial point is to focus on what we’ve done well and fix the tiny things that cost us results “Ryan ten Doeschate stated.
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