With excitement building for the highly anticipated five-match Test series between India and England, starting June 20, the spotlight has turned toward some surprising and inspiring selections in the Indian squad. Among them is the return of Karun Nair, once considered among the brightest Test prospects, now making his way back to the national team after eight long years. Accompanying him are KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav, both looking to make their mark in England.
Karun Nair’s story has been one of extraordinary highs and difficult lows. From scoring a historic triple century against England in 2016 to falling out of favor in the selectors’ books, his journey has been long, winding, and deeply personal. However, his recent performances in domestic cricket and the County circuit have earned him a well-deserved recall. One of the first to celebrate this comeback was his close friend and teammate KL Rahul.
Rahul, who had an exceptional IPL 2025 season playing for the Capitals, spoke candidly about what it means to see Nair back in the Indian whites. “We started playing cricket as 11-year-old boys together, and we have been on this journey ever since. Both of us have had our ups and downs,” he said. KL Rahul Praises Karun Nair and his determination to return to the highest level, highlighting the character and resilience it took for Nair to find his way back.
According to Rahul, “He got his opportunity, scored a triple hundred, faced a bit of tough time after that for a lot of reasons. But what has stood out is the way he has performed in the last 2–3 years. It’s inspiring.”
KL Rahul Praises Karun Nair’s Hard-Earned Comeback to the Indian Test Squad
Elaborating on Nair’s efforts, KL Rahul Praises Karun Nair for staying grounded and going back to the basics. “We have spoken about his time in the UK and him having played County cricket. The difficulties and challenges that he faced there have only made him stronger,” Rahul shared during a media interaction post-IPL 2025.
He added, “To have that drive to make a comeback to the Indian team despite all the hardships is commendable. KL Rahul Praises Karun Nair again by saying that not many players can find the motivation to return after such a long absence. It’s rare to see someone work this hard just for another shot at representing India.”
Karun Nair’s presence in the squad not only adds experience but also emotional depth, as the team embarks on a tough overseas challenge. Rahul expressed his hopes that their bond, formed over decades, would translate into solid performances. “I hope both of us can play for a very long time for the Indian team,” he said, acknowledging the deeper meaning behind sharing this opportunity with his childhood friend.
Switching gears to his own form and focus, Rahul emphasized how quickly he turned the page after the IPL. “I started with my preparations for the England series right after the IPL. I spoke to my coach to get mentally and technically ready. Coming to England is always a challenge, especially since they are very strong at home.”
India’s squad this time around is relatively young. With veterans like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma recently announcing their retirement from Test cricket, it’s a transition phase for Indian cricket. Rahul addressed this shift with a mix of emotion and responsibility.
“Virat and Rohit have been the pillars of Indian cricket for the last decade or so, and not having them around will be a huge miss. KL Rahul Praises Karun Nair for seizing this opportunity at such a time, when leadership and performance are needed from every corner of the dressing room.”
Rahul further added, “In my whole career so far, I have never walked into a team where there is no Virat or Rohit. The 50-odd Test matches that I have played, either Virat or Rohit or both of them have been there. It will feel different, for sure. But at the same time, it’s a new chapter, and one where we have to write our own stories.”
With the first Test scheduled at Headingley in Leeds, the series promises to be a challenging affair. England, bolstered by home advantage, will test the mettle of India’s new-generation players. But amid the uncertainties, the comeback of Karun Nair brings with it a sense of purpose and emotional uplift.
For fans and teammates alike, it’s more than just a selection; it’s a statement of perseverance. KL Rahul Praises Karun Nair not just for returning, but for showing what it truly means to earn that return.
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