India batter Karun Nair revealed that a well-known Indian cricketer once advised him to quit international cricket and focus on earning through T20 leagues instead. Nair made the revelation after fighting his way back into the Indian Test squad for the upcoming England series, marking a return after eight years.
His comeback was made possible in part due to the recent Test retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The 33-year-old also impressed in domestic cricket, piling up 863 runs in the 2024/25 Ranji Trophy season at an average of nearly 54. Speaking to Mail Sport ahead of the England tour (via TOI), Nair shared the surprising advice he once received.
“I still remember a prominent Indian cricketer calling me and saying I should retire because the money in these leagues would make me secure. It would have been easy to do, but I knew that regardless of the money, I would be kicking myself for giving up that easily.”
He further added:
“I was never going to give up on playing for India again. That was just over two years ago, and look where we are now. It’s crazy, but deep down, I knew I was good enough.”
“Feeling fortunate and thankful” – Karun Nair on India Test comeback
Karun Nair recently shared his happiness over making a return to the Indian Test squad after eight years, ahead of the upcoming series against England. India is set to take on England in a five-match Test series beginning June 20 in Leeds. Speaking about his comeback on BCCI.tv (as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo), Nair said:
“Feels really special. [I’m] Very grateful and fortunate to be able to get this opportunity again. Looking forward to grabbing this opportunity with both hands.”
Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Nair’s resilience, saying (via the same source):
“Comebacks are never easy. The amount of runs you’ve got, the never-give-up attitude – it’s inspiring for the entire team. Welcome back, Karun Nair.”
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