Domestic Performers Rewarded With A Spot In India Squad For ENG Tour Ft. Karun Nair

Karun Nair included in India's squad for England (Source:@MayankP36121336,x.com)

Indian cricket took a significant step into a new era on Saturday as the BCCI announced an 18-member squad for the five-match Test series against England, starting June 20. The biggest headline was the formal appointment of Shubman Gill as India’s new Test captain, succeeding Rohit Sharma. However, the spotlight also shone brightly on a few players who earned their spots due to their remarkable consistency in the domestic circuit.

As the team embarks on the first assignment of the 2025–27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, the selection committee made several notable inclusions based on recent form, fitness, and potential impact in English conditions. Here’s a detailed look at three such names: Karun Nair, Shardul Thakur, and Abhimanyu Easwaran.

1. Karun Nair

One of the most significant inclusions was that of Karun Nair, who returns to the Indian Test side after more than eight years. Nair last played for India in March 2017, and since then, his international career had seemingly stalled. 

The 33-year-old forced his way back with an outstanding domestic seasonin 2024–25. Representing Vidarbha, Nair accumulated 863 runs in 16 innings at a superb average of 53.94, playing a pivotal role in their Ranji Trophy triumph. His technique and temperament, combined with prior Test and county experience, made a strong case for his return. 

Karun Nair Stats In Ranji Trophy

2. Shardul Thakur 

While Shardul Thakur has been in and out of the Test team over the past few years, his exceptional domestic season made his selection undeniable. In the Ranji Trophy 2024–25, Thakur was Mumbai’s bowling spearhead. The acer pacer picked up 35 wickets in nine matches at an average of 22.62, including one five-wicket haul. More impressively, he demonstrated remarkable growth as a batsman, scoring 505 runs with an average of 42.08, which included one century and four half-centuries.

His prior success in England where he played game-changing cameos in the 2021 series also worked in his favour. With India looking for balance in English conditions, Thakur’s dual skills offer the perfect package.

Shardul Thakur Stats In Ranji Trophy

3. Abhimanyu Easwaran

For Abhimanyu Easwaran, patience have finally paid off. Long regarded as a domestic giant, the star opener has been on the edge of Test selection for years. This time, however, his consistent performances in domestic cricket has paid off.

Easwaran starred across all major tournaments Duleep Trophy, Irani Cup, and Ranji Trophy. He made 132 runs in just two Ranji innings at an average of 132.00. Having previously travelled as a back-up opener during the Australia series, Easwaran now seems primed for a full-time role.

Abhimanyu Easwaran Stats In Ranji Trophy

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