Karun Nair is an Indian cricketer known for his right-handed batting and occasional off-break bowling. Born on December 6, 1991, in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, he represents Vidarbha in domestic cricket. He was a crucial member of the Karnataka team. Nair has made significant contributions at various levels of cricket, including the Under-19 team, and has gained recognition for his performances in the Ranji Trophy.
Early Career
Nair made his first-class debut during the 2013-14 Ranji Trophy season, where he quickly established himself as a key player for Karnataka. He scored three consecutive centuries in the tournament, which helped Karnataka secure the title after a long wait. His standout performance came in the 2014-15 season when he scored a remarkable 328 runs in a single match, becoming the second player from Karnataka to achieve a triple century.
International Career
Nair’s international debut came in 2016 when he was included in the ODI squad for the series against Zimbabwe. He made his Test debut against England later that year, where he made headlines by scoring a historic 303 not out in just his third Test match. This achievement made him the fastest player to score a maiden triple-century in Test cricket history.
Despite this remarkable start, Nair struggled to maintain his place in the national team and faced challenges breaking into the playing XI consistently.
IPL Journey
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Nair began his career with Royal Challengers Bengaluru but had limited opportunities. He later played for Rajasthan Royals, where he had a successful stint before being signed by Delhi Capitals for a substantial amount in 2016. His performances have varied across different franchises, showcasing his potential as a reliable middle-order batsman.
Recent Developments
As of January 2025, Karun Nair continues to be an active player in domestic cricket and is looking to make an impact with Vidarbha and in future IPL seasons. His journey reflects both remarkable highs and challenges within professional cricket, making him a notable figure in Indian cricket circles.