The five-match Test series between India and England is set to begin on Friday, June 20. Just two days before the opening match, Team India has received some unfortunate news. Karun Nair, who was hoping to make a comeback to Test cricket after nearly eight years, has suffered an injury.
This series also marks the beginning of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle for both sides.
Karun Nair was included in the Indian Test squad for the first time since 2017. During a net session, a fast delivery from pacer Prasidh Krishna struck him on the rib cage, causing some discomfort. Although the 33-year-old looked uneasy, he resumed batting shortly afterward. After the session, he showed the support staff and teammates where the ball had hit him.
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Even though the injury appeared to be minor, Nair’s struggles during the net session raised concerns. He seemed uncomfortable while facing Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, particularly with deliveries outside the off-stump. He also had difficulties against spin, and at one point, Ravindra Jadeja clean bowled him. Nair later had a conversation with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak to work on his technique.
Karun Nair made headlines in December 2016 when he scored an unbeaten 303 in just his third Test match. However, he played only three more Tests and was dropped after the March 2017 match against Australia in Dharamsala. Since then, he had been working hard to return to the national team.
Despite facing several setbacks, Nair never gave up. In the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy season, he delivered a strong performance by scoring 863 runs in 9 matches at an average of 53.94, including 4 centuries and 2 half-centuries. He also impressed in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 779 runs in 9 matches at an extraordinary average of 389.50, which included 5 centuries.
Due to this outstanding form, Karun Nair was selected for the England tour. He had set his sights on performing well there too, but the recent injury might affect his plans for the immediate future.
