Karun Nair, who has made a remarkable return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a three-year hiatus, is making the most of his opportunity. The 33-year-old has been a force to be reckoned with, having recently taken the domestic cricket scene by storm with stellar performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Ranji Trophy. Now, back in the IPL fold with Delhi Capitals (DC), Nair has made it clear that his time away from the spotlight only fueled his determination to prove himself again.
The Wait Was Worth It: Nair’s IPL Return
After being picked by Delhi Capitals at the IPL 2025 mega auction for ₹50 lakh, Nair knew that he had something to prove. Having last played in the IPL in 2022, many thought he might be sidelined again this season. But Nair’s relentless desire to make a mark was evident from the beginning. Throughout the season, he kept pestering Delhi Capitals’ coach, Hemang Badani, with one question: “When am I going to get a game?”
His persistence paid off in a big way. Nair was included in the playing XI and made a significant impact with a blistering knock of 89 runs against Mumbai Indians, chasing down a challenging target of 205. While DC eventually lost the match in a heartbreaking last-over collapse, Nair’s performance was a testament to his skill, determination, and readiness to make an immediate impact after a long absence.
Nair’s Stellar Domestic Form: A Key to His IPL Return
Before making his IPL comeback, Nair had been on fire in domestic cricket. His performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Ranji Trophy were exceptional, and his consistency with the bat made it clear that he was ready for the big stage again. Nair’s knock of 89 against Mumbai was just one example of how he capitalized on the opportunity when it finally came.
Assistant coach Hemang Badani praised Nair for his relentless drive and determination. He recalled how Nair would constantly ask for more time in the nets, eager to get back to playing. “He was itching for a chance. Waiting to get onto the park. He has been bothering me ‘When am I going to get a game?’” Badani said, acknowledging the hunger and enthusiasm Nair displayed throughout the season.
The Journey of a Test Triple-Centurion: Will Nair Make a Comeback for India?
Nair’s journey is unique and remarkable. As India’s only other Test triple-centurion since Virender Sehwag, his career seemed to take an unexpected turn after his historic feat against England in 2016. Despite being India’s first triple-centurion in Test cricket for more than a decade, Nair’s international career took a backseat, with his place in the national team quickly fading due to the strong competition in the batting lineup.
Even though Nair’s name has often come up in discussions about India’s squad for various tournaments, his last appearance for the national team was in 2017. Now, at 33, his chances of returning to the Indian team remain uncertain. However, his recent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL have reignited his hopes. He continues to knock on the selectors’ door, and with his consistent form, he remains a player to watch out for.
What’s Next for Karun Nair?
At 33, Karun Nair is determined to keep proving himself, both on the domestic and IPL stages. While his future with the Indian team remains uncertain, his impressive run in the domestic circuit and the IPL suggests that he still has plenty to offer. If Nair continues to perform at this level, the national selectors may have no choice but to take notice of his contributions.
As he continues to shine in the IPL, Nair is not only rekindling his cricketing career but also setting an example of perseverance, determination, and the power of second chances. Whether or not he makes a return to the Indian team remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Karun Nair’s journey is far from over.
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