After a gap of over eight years, Karun Nair has made a remarkable return to India’s Test playing XI. He was included in the lineup for the first Test of the five-match series against England, thanks to his stellar form in domestic cricket.

Nair was the highest run-scorer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the fourth-highest in the Ranji Trophy during the 2024–25 season.

Registers a Rare Record

With his return, Nair now holds a rare distinction — he missed 77 Test matches between two appearances, placing him fourth on the list of Indians with the longest gap between Tests. Only Jaydev Unadkat (118), Dinesh Karthik (87), and Parthiv Patel (83) have missed more.

Jaydev Unadkat – 118 (2010–2022)

Dinesh Karthik – 87 (2010–2018)

Parthiv Patel – 83 (2008–2016)

Karun Nair – 77 (2017–2025)

Abhinav Mukund – 56 (2011–2017)

Despite scoring a memorable 303* against England in 2016, Nair was dropped from the team in 2017 and never received a consistent opportunity again. He shifted from Karnataka to Vidarbha to revive his career and returned to form with a string of strong performances.

Speaking to BCCI.tv, an emotional Karun said: “There were moments I questioned if I’d ever wear the Test jersey again. Walking into the dressing room and seeing everyone — it finally felt real. I’m back.”

“Life has come a full circle because I went out of the team in England and now I am coming back into the team in England,” Karun told BCCI. “Playing alongside Rahul and Prasidh is also a very comforting factor. We’ve played cricket for so many years since probably we were young kids and grew up together.”

While Nair currently represents India, he is expected to return to Karnataka for the upcoming domestic season after a brief stint with Vidarbha.