Indian cricketer turned YouTuber Aakash Chopra, who had already criticised Karun Nair’s position in the Indian team ahead of the 3rd Test, is now unhappy with the batter’s performance and believes his spot could be in jeopardy if India loses this Test match.
Karun Nair’s fairytale return appears to be falling apart, as he has managed just 131 runs in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy across six innings, averaging under 22. Coming into this Test under pressure, he failed to capitalise on his opportunity and scored only 54 runs across both innings.
Aakash Chopra - Manchester Test Selection Hinges on Nair’s Performance
Aakash Chopra noted that the outcome of this match might determine Nair’s place in the squad going forward:
“Karun Nair, what about the road ahead? Now both innings have ended. He has scored 40 once for sure and got a few starts. I think this match's outcome might determine whether he plays the next match in Manchester or not. He has scored enough runs for you to feel that there is a possibility of him scoring big runs,” Chopra said. (as quoted by SportsKeeda)
Chopra further pointed out that Nair has yet to register even a single half-century, and his No. 3 spot could be at risk depending on how the match concludes:
“However, he has six innings, and even a half-century hasn't been scored. It might be unfair, might be fair, I don't know, but many times the outcome of the game decides where you go. I feel Karun Nair should sit with his fingers crossed that India win this match somehow,” he added.
India Face Collapse on Final Day
Chopra wasn’t the only expert disappointed with Nair’s performance. Former Indian wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik also expressed frustration over the batter’s shot selection in the second innings, when India were chasing a tricky target of 193 runs at Lord’s.
Also Read: IND vs ENG 2025: India, England Set To Lose Points For Slow Over-Rate In Lord's Test
At present, England are just two wickets away from victory as players head into lunch on Day 5. Ravindra Jadeja remains India’s only hope at the crease, with Jasprit Bumrah next in line. India still needs 81 runs with two full sessions remaining.
Stay tuned for more updates from the England vs India 3rd Test.
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