Karun Nair was overlooked for India’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, even though he has been in remarkable form during the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Karun Nair’s Stellar Vijay Hazare Trophy Campaign
Karun Nair showcased his immense talent and form during the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025, emerging as one of the standout performers of the tournament. Representing Vidarbha, Nair amassed a jaw-dropping 779 runs in just 9 matches without being dismissed, maintaining an unprecedented average of 389.5. His remarkable run included five centuries, underlining his consistency and ability to dominate bowlers.
| Score | Against Team | Date |
| 112(108)* | JK | 23 Dec 2024 |
| 44(52)* | CG | 26 Dec 2024 |
| 163(107)* | CDG | 28 Dec 2024 |
| 111(103)* | TN | 31 Dec 2024 |
| 112(101) | UP | 03 Jan 2025 |
| Not Bat | MIZ | 05 Jan 2025 |
| 122(82)* | RAJ | 12 Jan 2025 |
| 88(44)* | MAH | 16 Jan 2025 |
| 27(31) | KAR | 18 Jan 2025 |
Fans’ Expectations for a Comeback
After an 8-year absence from the Indian squad, Nair’s Vijay Hazare heroics had many fans and cricket pundits predicting his return for the Champions Trophy 2025. His performances not only highlighted his incredible batting prowess but also rekindled memories of his brilliance, particularly his historic triple century in Test cricket against England in 2017.
Ajit Agarkar’s Explanation for Nair’s Exclusion
Despite his phenomenal numbers, Karun Nair was overlooked by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee when announcing India’s 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy. Addressing the media, Agarkar acknowledged Nair’s exceptional form, stating:
“Averaging 385+ is simply insane. Performances like his don’t happen often. However, with only 15 spots available, we can’t fit everyone.”
Agarkar emphasized that the selected players had consistently performed well, averaging in the mid-40s, making the decision a tough one.
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Squad: The Selected Batting Core
India has built a strong batting lineup for the tournament, retaining key players from their successful 2023 ODI World Cup campaign. The batting group includes:
- Rohit Sharma (Captain) and Shubman Gill as the opening pair.
- Virat Kohli at the pivotal number three position.
- Shreyas Iyer likely to slot in at number four.
- A contest for the wicketkeeper-batsman role between Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul.
The inclusion of all-rounders such as Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar adds depth and flexibility to the squad. Rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal also earned his maiden ODI call-up, further bolstering India’s batting strength.
Karun Nair’s Legacy and the Road Ahead
Karun Nair remains a player of immense talent, with his name etched in history as the second Indian batsman to score a Test triple century, following Virender Sehwag. While his exclusion from the Champions Trophy squad is a setback, his Vijay Hazare performances are a testament to his skill and determination.
As Nair continues to pile up runs in domestic cricket, a future recall to the national team remains a strong possibility. For now, India’s focus shifts to the Champions Trophy, where they aim to maintain their winning momentum with a balanced and formidable squad.