What Went Wrong With Karun Nair, India's Second Triple Centurion In Tests?



Karun Nair has been in stunning form in domestic cricket [Source: @englandcricket/x.com]Karun Nair has been in stunning form in domestic cricket [Source: @englandcricket/x.com]

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Karun Nair, the player who once set Indian cricket on fire with that unforgettable triple ton against England, has had quite the rollercoaster ride in his career. While his international days feel like a thing of the past, Nair's been quietly making buzz in domestic cricket and is proving he still has what it takes to be in the Indian team.

The Vijay Hazare Trophy Heroics

If you’re wondering what Karun Nair’s been up to, his exploits in the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy are enough to grab your attention. The batter created history by scoring 542 runs without getting out in five consecutive matches—a world record for the most List A runs between dismissals. And he didn’t stop there. Across the tournament, he amassed a staggering 779 runs at an eye-popping average of 389.50.

Nair’s consistency in the tournament was mind-boggling. Out of the nine innings he played, he remained unbeaten in eight, with his only dismissal coming in the final against his former team Karnataka. Talk about saving the best for last!

A Domestic Stalwart

Karun’s domestic journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. From smashing a triple ton in the Ranji Trophy final to being a key player for Karnataka, Nair’s batting has been a class apart over the years. He even led Karnataka to multiple Ranji Trophy wins, and made his place as a dependable top-order batter. Switching gears, Nair now plies his trade for Vidarbha in domestic cricket.

The IPL Chapter

Karun Nair has had quite the IPL journey after starting with Royal Challengers Bangalore before truly announcing himself with a breakout season for Rajasthan Royals in 2014. Over the years, he has switched teams, even captaining Delhi Daredevils for a few matches in 2017. 

He’s since had stints with Kings XI Punjab, Kolkata Knight Riders, and a return to Rajasthan Royals. Fast forward to 2025, and Nair’s back in the mix after being picked up by Delhi Capitals for INR 50 lakh in the IPL auction.

The Triple-Ton That Made History

Of course, no discussion about Karun Nair is complete without revisiting that iconic triple century against England in 2016. At just 25, and in only his third Test innings, Nair smashed an unbeaten 303, becoming the quickest player to score a triple ton in Test history. Unfortunately, a dip in form and tough competition meant his international career didn’t take off as expected.

What’s Next for Karun?

While his days in the blue jersey might be behind him, Nair’s focus on domestic cricket and the IPL keeps him in the limelight. He’s shown that he’s far from done, and his recent exploits prove he’s still got plenty of fuel left in the tank. With a hunger for runs and a point to prove, don’t be surprised if we see Nair making headlines again soon.