Sat Jan 18 23:27:46 UTC 2025: ## Stellar Vijay Hazare Performance Not Enough for Karun Nair’s Champions Trophy Bid

**Mumbai, January 18** – Despite a phenomenal run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Vidarbha captain Karun Nair has been omitted from India’s squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Nair’s remarkable 752 runs in just seven innings, averaging a staggering 752, had garnered widespread attention, including praise from legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed the difficult decision, acknowledging Nair’s exceptional performances. “Yeah, it was tough. Those are really special performances. Someone who averages 700-plus,” Agarkar stated. However, he cited the already strong batting lineup as the reason for Nair’s exclusion. “At the moment, finding a spot in the squad in this team is really difficult. Look at the guys who have been picked. All average well in excess of mid-40s. Unfortunately, you can’t fit everyone in a squad of 15,” Agarkar explained.

While Nair missed out on the Champions Trophy and the upcoming three-ODI series against England, Agarkar emphasized that the selectors have taken note of his impressive form. “But those performances certainly make you take notice. If there is a loss of form (for a player) or injuries, there’s certainly going to be a conversation around him,” he added.

The 15-member Indian squad for the Champions Trophy includes Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja.

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