Following Virat Kohli’s decision to step away from red-ball cricket, India faces a significant void in their Test batting line up particularly at the No. 4 position. This spot has historically been crucial to India’s Test success, having been held by legends like Sachin Tendulkar and most recently, Virat Kohli himself. In the midst of speculation over who might fill the critical role, former Indian captain and coach Anil Kumble has thrown his support towards Karun Nair.
Kumble, speaking during a cricket discussion panel, stated that Karun Nair’s recent domestic form and experience in English conditions make him an ideal fit for the No. 4 slot. Karun deserves to come back into the Indian team with the kind of domestic run he has had. So perhaps he could be the No.4 for India because I feel you need a bit of experience. You need someone in England who has been there and done that, Kumble stated.
Karun Nair’s Strong Domestic Form
The 32-year-old Nair has been one of the most consistent performers in India’s domestic circuit over the past year. Playing for Vidarbha in 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, Nair scored 860 runs. His tally includes four centuries and two half-centuries, showcasing both consistency and temperament in crucial matches.
Nair didn’t just shine in red-ball cricket, he also scored 779 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His form across formats demonstrates a mature approach to innings-building and situational awareness, qualities crucial for a Test No. 4 batter.
A Look at Karun Nair’s Test Career
Although Nair didn’t play many Tests, he made history with a triple century. Here’s a summary of his Test stats (2016-17):
| Matches | Innings | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
| 6 | 7 | 374 | 62.33 | 73.91 |
His unbeaten 303 against England in 2016 made him only the second Indian after Virender Sehwag to score a triple hundred in Test cricket. Despite this remarkable achievement, he was dropped after just a handful of matches and has not played a Test since 2017.
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Experience in English Conditions
Another key factor Kumble highlighted is Nair’s familiarity with English pitches. Nair has previously played county cricket for Northamptonshire, gaining valuable experience in conditions that are typically challenging for Indian batters. English pitches often help seam and swing bowlers, especially early in the summer, so having played there before is a big advantage.
India is scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series, and the selectors will be keen to back a player who can handle the condition and pressure that come with playing abroad. Nair’s experience playing county cricket could give him the advantage he needs.
A chance at Redemption
With Kohli’s departure, the door may finally reopen for Nair to reclaim a long-awaited opportunity. Kumble highlighted the need to offer opportunities to players like Nair.
As India looks to rebuild its Test batting core post-Virat Kohli, Anil Kumble’s endorsement of Karun Nair brings a compelling case to the table. Backed by strong domestic numbers and overseas experience, Nair could provide the composure and reliability India needs at No. 4, a position that needs good cricket skills and a strong mindset. Only time will tell if the selectors hear Kumble’s advice, but for Karun Nair, the opportunity may be just around the corner.
Written by – Kinjal
