Karun Nair delivered a masterclass with the bat during Delhi Capitals’ high-stakes encounter against Mumbai Indians in Match 29 of the IPL 2025 season at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday (April 13). But despite his fiery 89-run blitz off just 40 deliveries, DC fell agonizingly short of the 206-run target, succumbing to a 12-run defeat — their first loss of the season.
Nair, who made a return to IPL action after missing out on the last two seasons, came in as an Impact Player and looked in sublime touch. Batting at No. 3, he stitched together a crucial 119-run partnership with Abhishek Porel for the second wicket, smashing 12 fours and 5 sixes in a breathtaking innings.
However, his dismissal marked the turning point of the game. From 119/1 in 10.1 overs, DC collapsed to 160/6 in a matter of 30 balls, eventually getting bowled out for 193 in the final over. Three run-outs in the penultimate over sealed DC’s fate as MI staged a dramatic comeback.
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“No value if the team doesn’t win,” says Karun
Speaking to the media after the match, Karun Nair expressed his disappointment, saying his knock felt meaningless in the context of the loss.
“We play to win the match, so there is disappointment. And no matter how much we score, if the team does not win, then there is no value of it. For me, the team’s win was very important, and it did not happen,” Karun stated.
“There is no point talking about my innings, because I played well, but I could not finish, so there is disappointment,” he added.
The 33-year-old emphasized the importance of maintaining partnerships in T20 cricket and credited the MI bowlers for their discipline under pressure.
“It was easier for the set batsman to play than for the new batsman. So it was very important for a set batter to continue. We lost wickets at regular intervals, so it was difficult in the end,” Karun reflected. “They bowled well and put us under pressure. We were not able to stitch partnerships, which is important in T20s.”
Ready and waiting: Grabbing the opportunity
Karun’s performance came after sitting out the initial matches this season. He was brought in as a replacement for the injured Faf du Plessis, and he made the most of the opportunity.
“Obviously, we lost an important player in Faf. We always knew that a few of us sitting out had to be ready. So mentally I was prepared and looking forward to the chance whenever it came. I’m happy I could make it count.”
Taking on Bumrah — a highlight of the night
A standout moment from his knock was how confidently he tackled world-class pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Karun smacked Bumrah for two fours in the fourth over, and followed up with two sixes and a four in the sixth.
“I was in the flow, and didn’t want to stop the momentum. It was about picking the right balls and backing myself. Bumrah is the best bowler in world cricket right now, so I had to be extra cautious — but I was confident in the areas I was targeting.”
Eyes on the IPL, not beyond
Despite his recent strong performances, including standout performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy earlier this year, Karun says his focus remains squarely on the IPL.
“In my mind, right now this tournament (IPL) is going on. I feel that I should continue the consistency I’m showing, and not think too far ahead. Every match is a new day, and I want to fully utilise whatever chances I get.”
With form on his side and confidence renewed, Karun Nair will be key to Delhi Capitals’ campaign as they look to bounce back in their upcoming matches.
