Published: Jan 21, 2025, 01:20 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 21, 2025, 01:20 PM (IST)
Out-of-favour batter Karun Nair recently had an incredible Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign while featuring for Vidarbha. Nair finished as the highest run-scorer of the tournament, accumulating 779 runs which included 5 centuries and a fifty at a brilliant average of 389.50.
Following this magnificent run, Nair’s name was considered for India’s 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy. However, the 33-year-old failed to make the cut into the squad despite his stunning form.
Following the snub, Nair admitted that he is dreaming to make a comeback to the national side and added that the hunger to make it to the squad keeps him motivated.
“Obviously, the possibility of an India comeback has to be on your mind. If you want to play for the country, you have to keep dreaming. There are these thoughts and dreams in the head but that’s just motivation,” Nair told Hindustan Times.
In the press conference where the Indian squad for the ICC tournament was announced, chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed that the selectors did discuss Nair’s name for the squad following his superb performances, but they weren’t able to find a place in the team for him.
“I mean, those are really special performances and I mean someone who averages about 700+, 750 + or something, we did have a chat, no doubt about it, when those kind of performances happen. At the moment, to find a spot in this team is very difficult. Look at the guys who have been picked. All average well in excess of mid-40s,” Agarkar said.
“Unfortunately, you can’t fit everyone in a squad of 15. But those performances certainly make you take notice. If there is a loss of form (for a player) or injuries, there’s certainly going to be a conversation around him,” Agarkar added.
