Sat Jan 18 07:14:26 UTC 2025: ## Karun Nair’s Stellar Vijay Hazare Trophy Performance Fuels Champions Trophy Speculation

**Mumbai, January 17, 2025** – Karnataka batsman Karun Nair’s exceptional performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy has reignited speculation about a potential return to the Indian Champions Trophy squad. Nair, currently captain of Vidarbha, has amassed a staggering 752 runs in just 7 innings of the domestic tournament, including 5 centuries. This remarkable form has led to widespread discussion about a surprise inclusion in the Champions Trophy team.

Nair’s prolific run-scoring comes at a time when domestic cricket is receiving increased attention, with head coach Gautam Gambhir encouraging all players to focus on domestic matches. However, reports from India Today suggest that despite his impressive form, Nair will not be selected for the Champions Trophy squad, with sources citing his age (33) and his last appearance for India in 2017. His last international matches were two ODIs against Zimbabwe in 2016 under MS Dhoni’s captaincy.

While a Champions Trophy recall seems unlikely, Nair’s performance has not gone unnoticed. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar lauded Nair’s achievement on X (formerly Twitter), praising his “immense focus and hard work.” Nair’s chances of a return to the Indian team might be better in the Test format, particularly considering the struggles of Indian batsmen in Australia. His previous impressive Test career, highlighted by a triple-century against England in 2016, ended after a series against Australia in 2017.

Ironically, Nair, who lost his place in the Karnataka Ranji Trophy team in 2022, will lead Vidarbha against his former team, Karnataka, in the Vijay Hazare Trophy final on January 18th. His move to Vidarbha has proved transformative, showcasing his resurgence in domestic cricket. While a Champions Trophy comeback is currently unlikely, Nair’s outstanding performance leaves the door open for a potential future return to the Indian team, possibly in Test cricket.

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