Gautam Gambhir assures Karun Nair extended opportunities: Fair assessment beyond initial matches is guaranteed.
  • 614 views
  • 2 min read

Gautam Gambhir, the newly appointed head coach of the Indian cricket team, has strongly backed Karun Nair's inclusion in the playing XI for the upcoming Test series against England, signaling a significant shift in approach towards rewarding consistent domestic performers. Speaking at a pre-departure press conference ahead of the team's tour of England, Gambhir emphasized that Nair would be given an extended run in the team, a stark contrast to the latter's previous experiences with the national side.

Nair's Test career has been a story of extraordinary highs and perplexing lows. After becoming only the second Indian batsman to score a triple century in Test cricket, with an unforgettable 303 not out against England in 2016, he was surprisingly dropped from the team just months later. A string of disappointing performances and being benched during the 2018 England tour further hampered his progress, leaving many to believe that his international career was over.

However, Nair remained resilient, grinding it out in the domestic circuit and consistently putting up impressive numbers. His hard work and dedication paid off with a prolific 2023 stint in county cricket, followed by a dominant 2024-25 domestic season where he amassed 863 Ranji Trophy runs. He further cemented his claim for a Test recall with a recent double century for India A against England Lions, showcasing his adaptability to English conditions.

Gambhir acknowledged Nair's impressive domestic form and highlighted the importance of rewarding players who consistently perform well at that level. "When someone has scored heaps of runs, we won't judge them by 1-2 tests. If someone has scored heaps of runs, we have to give him opportunities," Gambhir stated firmly. This statement reflects a clear change in philosophy, suggesting that players will now be assessed based on a more sustained period of performance rather than isolated failures.

Furthermore, Gambhir emphasized the value of Nair's experience, particularly his exposure to county cricket. "It's good to have the experience of Karun, who has played a bit of County cricket. He has scored runs there and hit a double hundred for India A. It's always good to have players who are in good form on these kinds of tours. His experience will definitely come in handy, and hopefully he can deliver," he added.

The head coach's comments have instilled confidence in Nair, who is determined to make the most of this second opportunity. Nair's inclusion in the squad is also viewed as a positive sign for domestic cricket, sending a strong message to aspiring cricketers that consistent performances at the domestic level will be recognized and rewarded. Gambhir himself reiterated this point, stating, "It's great for domestic cricket. It's great for the future of domestic cricket. All the youngsters who are playing domestic will understand its importance: 'if you keep doing well in domestic cricket, doors are never shut'."

With India set to play five Test matches against England, beginning at Headingley on June 20, Nair is likely to get a chance to prove his worth in the playing XI. And with Gautam Gambhir's backing, he will have a long enough run to showcase his talent and cement his place in the team.


Writer - Rohan Reddy
Rohan Reddy is an emerging journalist with a strong commitment to nuanced reporting, propelled by his passion for sports. He possesses a foundational understanding of journalistic principles and is keen to develop his skills in a dynamic media environment. Rohan is eager to explore compelling human interest stories and complex societal issues, aiming to contribute impactful and well-researched content to the field of journalism, always finding inspiration in the competitive spirit of sports.
Advertisement

Latest Post


The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly considering acquiring Erik Karlsson from the Pittsburgh Penguins to bolster their offensive capabilities on the blue line. However, a trade for Karlsson may not be the best move for the Leafs, despite their need...
  • 301 views
  • 2 min

India secured a T20 series victory over England with a convincing six-wicket win at Old Trafford on Wednesday. The defeat leaves England trailing 3-1 in the five-match series, with the final game scheduled for Saturday at Edgbaston. England, after w...
  • 468 views
  • 1 min

England's Women's Euro 2025 campaign experienced a dramatic turnaround after a disappointing start, and a key tactical switch appears to be the catalyst. Following a 2-1 defeat to France in their opening match, the Lionesses bounced back with a stunn...
  • 496 views
  • 2 min

Alessia Russo has expressed confidence in England's chances at the Women's Euro 2025 after the team rediscovered their "DNA" in a dominant 4-0 victory against the Netherlands. This emphatic win followed a disappointing 2-1 defeat to France in their o...
  • 206 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
The trade that sent Rick Vaive from the Vancouver Canucks to the Toronto Maple Leafs on February 18, 1980, proved to be a pivotal moment for both the player and the trajectory of the Maple Leafs franchise. This trade, which saw Vaive and Bill Derlago...
  • 444 views
  • 2 min

The Indian women's hockey team faces a significant challenge as they strive to regain their form and international standing. After a string of disappointing performances, including relegation from the FIH Pro League, Hockey India has entrusted Harend...
  • 414 views
  • 2 min

As the NHL offseason progresses, the Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly among the teams expressing interest in acquiring defenseman Erik Karlsson from the Pittsburgh Penguins. Karlsson's Potential Fit with the Maple Leafs Following an early playoff ...
  • 223 views
  • 2 min

The Edmonton Oilers recently acquired Isaac Howard from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Sam O'Reilly. Howard, a Hobey Baker Award winner, is expected to bring offensive firepower to the Oilers. While many are optimistic about this acquisition...
  • 513 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
About   •   Terms   •   Privacy
© 2025 SportsBuzz360