Nair’s comeback has been underwhelming by numbers and impact. Since his recall, the right-handed batsman has scored 0 and 20 in his comeback Test at Leeds, followed by 31 and 26 at Edgbaston, and 40 and 14 at Lord’s, totaling 131 runs in the series so far. Despite getting starts, he has not capitalized to post a significant innings
Sai Sudharsan, Karun Nair (Pic: AFP)
As India gear up for the pivotal fourth Test against England at Manchester beginning July 23, former India wicketkeeper-batsman Deep Dasgupta has shared his views on the possible changes India might consider to strengthen their lineup in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
India suffered a narrow 22-run defeat at Lord’s in the third Test, allowing England to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. The loss sparked renewed scrutiny on the performance of Karun Nair, who made a much-anticipated return to the Test side after an eight-year hiatus.
Speaking as a JioHotstar expert, Dasgupta stressed the need for minimal changes in the playing eleven, saying, “In the Playing XI, you don't want more than one change. If there is only one, it would be replacing Nair with Sudharsan. Because Nair hasn't made any runs. He's got starts, but hasn't converted them into big scores. I also believe he doesn't look that comfortable at the crease either."
Dasgupta went on to highlight the importance of investing in youth, especially in a challenging England series. “And secondly, Sudharsan is a young player. If you want to invest in this England series, you'd rather invest in a younger player. Nair has got starts in both Test matches, but he hasn't looked that convincing. So if you're looking to build ahead, you might as well invest in someone like Sudharsan. Because after this, I don't know when you'll come back to a series in England. So when you have two Tests left, invest in Sudharsan.”
Nair’s comeback has been underwhelming by numbers and impact. Since his recall, the right-handed batsman has scored 0 and 20 in his comeback Test at Leeds, followed by 31 and 26 at Edgbaston, and 40 and 14 at Lord’s, totaling 131 runs in the series so far. Despite getting starts, he has not capitalized to post a significant innings that could anchor the innings.
On the other hand, Sudharsan, who debuted at Leeds, has had a mixed start. He was dismissed for a duck in the first innings but managed 30 runs in the second innings. He has not featured in the playing eleven since then, but his youthful promise and potential for growth remain enticing for the selectors.
With just two Tests remaining in the series, India’s team management faces a critical decision, whether to trust the experience of Nair or to place faith in the youth and potential of Sudharsan.
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