Karun Nair’s career is now in jeopardy after he was heralded as India’s next batting sensation following his historic triple century against England in 2016. The 32-year-old has had trouble turning chances into game-winning goals, even after being given another shot through domestic performances and India A selections. Fans and former cricket players are now asking if this was his final chance.
In recent appearances, Nair, who is renowned for his composed manner and classical technique, has fallen short of expectations. Critics contend that his lack of memorable innings and incapacity to capitalise on crucial opportunities have hurt his reputation in a crowded field of young Indian hitters hoping to make their debut. According to a former national selector, cricket is brutal. “It’s rare to have multiple significant opportunities, and Karun might have simply missed his.”
Former Indian cricket players have voiced their dissatisfaction with his current performance. Although they recognise his prior excellence, they also make the point that players who are unable to perform well under duress have little place in the current team dynamics. Given the emergence of a new generation of aggressive, multi-format artists, Nair’s traditional style might not be appropriate.
It remains to be seen if this is a brief setback in Nair’s career or the end of his hopes of going global. For now, he must look inward, regroup, and let the bat do the talking—because time and selectors may not give him another inning.
