Second wind: Karun’s comeback started with him playing a key role in Vidarbha’s run to last year’s Ranji final.
| Photo Credit: FILE PHOTO: EMMANUAL YOGINI
Karun Nair has set the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy on fire by leading from the front for Vidarbha, smashing five centuries in six innings and powering his team into the semifinals.
The 33-year-old has amassed 664 runs and is currently leading the run charts.
During the league stage, the former Karnataka batter scored the world record for most List-A runs without being dismissed (542).
“I have been playing well for the last 16-17 months. I have played many county games as well, which has helped me in my game and my confidence by getting runs there in difficult conditions. I have been just trying to enjoy my batting, and it’s been coming out well in all formats,” Karun told The Hindu recently about his purple patch.
“It is not something that’s just come off suddenly. It’s the work of a few years, and I am pleased with how it’s coming out, and I hope it continues.”
Karun announced his arrival on the big stage when he became only the second Indian to score a Test triple-century during the fifth Test against England in Chennai (2016). However, despite achieving a monumental feat in only his third Test, he played only three more games before falling off the radar.
His career hit a further low when his home state of Karnataka decided to move past him in 2022-23, and he was out of action for more than six months.
But he has found a second wind since moving to Vidarbha last year.
He scored 690 runs in last year’s Ranji Trophy and played a key role in his side reaching the summit clash.
“To be not playing a full season was heartbreaking and disappointing,” he remarked, but felt that it helped him toughen up.
“It has probably helped me become stronger, learning every day and putting in more effort. When you are not given the opportunity, that’s when you realise what you miss. I am very grateful to be given this opportunity again, and I’m keeping it simple, taking one game at a time.”
Matured
Looking ahead, the Vidarbha skipper feels he has matured as a cricketer and can still make a comeback to the Indian team.
“If I didn’t feel like that, I wouldn’t go and play county cricket.
“Why would I do that if I didn’t have the belief in myself to play? The intentions are very clear from my side. I think I can, and I think I’m good enough,” added Karun.
Published – January 13, 2025 09:09 pm IST
