Should India persist with Karun Nair?

Karun Nair returned to India’s Test setup for the first time in eight years during the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. However, his comeback so far has been rather underwhelming, something that the right-handed batter might not have envisioned while boarding the flight to the United Kingdom.

Nair played the first Test in the five-match series at Headingley, Leeds, batting at No. 6. He failed to open his account in the first innings and made 20 in the second. The action shifted to Edgbaston, Birmingham, for the second Test, and Nair was promoted to No. 3 in the batting order. However, the change in batting position did not bring about a change in fortune for the 33-year-old as he registered scores of 31 and 26, failing to build on his starts in both innings. 

After four innings, Nair is averaging 19.25. It seems that time is running out for the experienced campaigner, as the likes of Sai Sudharsan and Abhimanyu Easwaran are waiting in the wings. It is important to note that head coach Gautam Gambhir vowed to give Nair a long rope on his return to the Test lineup ahead of India’s tour of England. Former India opener Aakash Chopra also urged the team management to give the Jodhpur-born one last chance in the third Test, which begins at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London from Thursday, July 10, to cement his place.

However, even if Nair plays the third Test, it won’t be easy for him as the conditions at Lord’s are expected to favour the fast bowlers. If he continues to bat at No. 3, he will have to be at his best to counter the England seamers, especially after the Three Lions announced the inclusion of Jofra Archer in their playing XI for the third Test. Ideally, Nair should get at least one final chance at Lord’s, and if he fails to repay the faith, India can then look elsewhere.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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