“It’s something that’s always in the back of my mind”: Karun Nair eyes India comeback after IPL return
Karun Nair is set to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a five-year hiatus. The experienced Indian batter was acquired by Delhi Capitals during the mega auction in November. However, Nair’s main goal is to secure a spot in the Indian team for the upcoming tour of England in June.
Nair has been in excellent form in domestic cricket. He followed up his record-breaking performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored 779 runs in nine matches at an impressive average of 389.50, including five centuries, by continuing his success in red-ball cricket. He accumulated 860 runs at an average of 57.33, with four centuries, highlighted by a match-winning knock of 135 and 85 in the final to help Vidarbha clinch the title.
In Delhi Capitals’ first media interaction before the 2025 IPL, Nair acknowledged that his stellar domestic performances have increased his chances of making a return to the Indian team. However, he emphasized that his focus remains on the IPL and he isn’t looking too far ahead.
“I believe I’m getting closer, though I’m not sure exactly how close I am. It’s something that’s always in the back of my mind, But right now, my main focus is on preparing properly and understanding my role in the IPL, so I can contribute in every match I play.” he stated
In contrast to earlier beliefs, the IPL has significantly influenced selectors’ decisions for the Indian Test team. Since Nair’s debut in 2013, 29 players have represented India in Tests, and only three were not active IPL players. Ajinkya Rahane returned to the Indian Test team in 2023 after a standout IPL season with Chennai Super Kings. On the other hand, despite his impressive run in domestic cricket, Bengal’s Abhimanyu Easwaran has been overlooked for Test selection due to his lack of IPL exposure.
Nair, who debuted in 2013, has played 73 IPL matches, scoring 1480 runs at an average of 24.26 and a strike rate of 128.36, with 10 half-centuries to his name.
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