Karun Nair Opens Up: “Was Told To Retire and Play Franchise Cricket” Ahead of Test Comeback

Karun Nair’s inspirational return to India’s Test squad after a seven-year gap is not just a story of cricketing performance—it’s a tale of resilience, perseverance, and belief in one’s own abilities. Dropped after India’s England tour in 2018 and overlooked by both the national and state selectors for years, Nair’s path back was anything but smooth.

In a recent revelation that has taken the cricketing world by surprise, Karun disclosed that a “prominent Indian cricketer” once advised him to retire and chase money in franchise leagues instead. Speaking to the Daily Mail, the 32-year-old said:

“I still remember a prominent Indian cricketer calling me and saying you need to retire because the money in these leagues would make me secure. It would have been easy to do, but I knew that regardless of the money, I would be kicking myself for giving up that easily.”

This suggestion, which might have swayed many, didn’t derail Karun’s vision. For him, representing India again was more valuable than any franchise paycheque. “I was never going to give up on playing for India again. That was just over two years ago and look where we are now. It’s crazy but deep down, I knew I was good enough,” he said.

Career Revival in Domestic Cricket

After being dropped by Karnataka in 2022, Nair made the bold move to switch to Vidarbha, which proved to be a masterstroke. His 2024/25 domestic season was nothing short of extraordinary:

• Ranji Trophy 2024/25:
  • Matches: 9
  • Runs: 863
  • Average: 53.93
  • Helped Vidarbha clinch the title
• Vijay Hazare Trophy:
  • Runs: 779
  • Average: 389.50

His return to form made it impossible for selectors to ignore him, and the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee included him in India’s Test squad, setting the stage for what could be a fairytale second innings in international cricket.

A Mindset Shift

Karun emphasized that he’s no longer fixated on long-term goals or numbers. This time, he just wants to relish every moment of wearing the India cap.

“Earlier, I didn’t make the most of my opportunities. This time, I want to soak it all in one match at a time,” he said.

Karun Nair’s Test Career So Far

• Matches: 6
• Runs: 374
• Average: 62.33
• Highest Score: 303* vs England (Chennai, 2016)

His triple century in 2016 remains a monumental feat, making him only the second Indian (after Virender Sehwag) to reach that landmark. However, inconsistent chances and a crowded middle-order led to his long exile from the national team.

Final Thoughts

Karun Nair’s story is a powerful reminder that persistence and self-belief often trump short-term gains. While the modern game increasingly leans toward franchise leagues, his journey proves there’s still room for traditional grit, red-ball glory, and the dream of donning national colours.

With India set to begin their Test series shortly, all eyes will be on Karun as he prepares to make his long-awaited return.