This season, domestic cricket hero Karun Nair has once again proven why he is currently the most in-form batters. Given a chance in the Indian Premier League, he capitalised beautifully, smashing 89 runs off 40 balls with a strike rate of 222 against Mumbai Indians on Sunday night. Originally not the first-choice player for the team, he came in for Faf du Plessis, who’s the vice-captain for Delhi Capitals, as he didn’t make it to the XI due to injury. However, now Delhi Capitals should think twice before dropping him.
Taking on the world’s best bowler? @karun126 didn’t hesitate!
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 13, 2025“He’s reading Bumrah like a book!” – Harsha Bhogle, on air
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Why Karun Nair is Important for the team
Earlier, people thought Karun Nair was more of an ODI and Test batsman, as he performed really well in List A cricket, including the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and showed his form in the Ranji Trophy too. He was the highest scorer for his team in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament, which is the premier T20 tournament. Now, he has shown that he still has the spark to play in the IPL with a good strike rate, making it difficult for Delhi Capitals to drop him. Until Faf du Plessis returns, they should continue playing him.
What after Faf returns?
When Faf returns to the playing XI, they shouldn’t drop Karun Nair because he is in form. Even if he doesn’t perform well in one or two matches, DC should not rush and instead keep playing him. He could replace Vipraj Nigam, who is an all-rounder, but this would leave DC with five bowlers, so they need to manage that.
Karun should continue in IPL 2025
It’s tough to fit Karun Nair in the lineup, but it’s crucial given his form. Great players are there, but in-form batsmen can hit really well and hard, providing match-winning performances.
