In the cricketing world, there are players who, despite their immense talent, remain underappreciated or overshadowed by their more renowned counterparts. One such player is Karun Nair, an Indian cricketer who showcased his potential and skill but often flew under the radar. In this article, we delve into Nair’s top three underrated performances while representing Team India, where he left a lasting impact on the game and proved his mettle as a formidable cricketer.
1. 303* against England, Chennai, 2016:
Karun Nair’s monumental innings of 303* against England in Chennai remains one of the most significant yet underrated performances in Indian cricket history. In only his third Test match, Nair became only the second Indian batsman to score a triple century. His majestic knock, which included 32 boundaries and 4 sixes, propelled India to a mammoth total and played a crucial role in their series victory. Nair’s composure, flawless strokeplay, and ability to capitalize on every scoring opportunity showcased his immense talent and potential.
2. 71 against Australia, Dharamsala, 2017:
In a crucial Test match against Australia in Dharamsala, Karun Nair played a vital innings that helped India secure a series victory. Coming in to bat with the team in a precarious situation, Nair displayed remarkable resilience and determination. His knock of 71 runs provided stability to the innings and enabled India to post a competitive total. Nair’s ability to counter the Australian bowlers, tackle the challenging conditions, and contribute significantly in a high-pressure situation highlighted his character as a valuable team player.
3. 62 against Zimbabwe, Harare, 2016:
During India’s tour of Zimbabwe in 2016, Karun Nair showcased his ability to adapt to different formats with a match-winning innings in a One-Day International (ODI). Batting at number three, Nair’s composed knock of 62 runs proved vital in helping India chase down the target. His responsible innings, which included seven boundaries, demonstrated his ability to anchor the innings and play a substantial role in guiding his team to victory. Nair’s contribution in this match exemplified his adaptability and his potential to deliver under different circumstances.
