Karun Nair’s comeback in Test cricket took a positive turn on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test between India and England at The Oval. Batting under pressure and on a green, seaming pitch, Nair managed to score a well-earned 52* at stumps — his first Test fifty in nine years. As players walked off, England’s Joe Root took a moment to pat Nair on the back and acknowledge his fighting knock.
Root’s on-field gesture was widely appreciated by fans and pundits. The Englishman, known for his sportsmanship, seemed to understand how much the moment meant to Nair, who had struggled in earlier matches and was dropped before being recalled for this game. The camera captured Root’s act of appreciation, a rare but touching moment in a heated series.
Batting lower down the order helps Karun
Karun’s promotion to number five appeared to work wonders. After multiple short stays in previous innings, the 32-year-old found his rhythm under challenging conditions. His knock stood out as most other Indian batters failed to get going on a lively Oval pitch. It marked his only 50-plus score since his historic 303* against England in 2016.
Karun’s journey back into the national team has been anything but straightforward. From switching states in the domestic circuit to making a mark in the IPL, he’s had to earn his place again. Now, with India at 204/6 heading into Day 2, Karun, alongside Washington Sundar, will look to extend India’s total toward 300 on a wicket that continues to assist the bowlers.
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