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After a day of hard-fought cricket in the fifth Test at The Oval, India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate lauded Karun Nair for his determined knock. On a green and challenging pitch, Nair’s composed innings stood out, earning praise for both skill and temperament under testing conditions.
Ryan Ten Doeschate lauds Karun Nair’s composure in testing conditions
India’s batters found it tough going on a challenging Oval surface, slipping to 153 for 6 at one stage. However, Nair stood firm, not only bringing up a gritty half-century but also guiding India past the 200-run mark with four wickets still in hand. In the post-match press conference, ten Doeschate praised Nair for handling a challenging role on the tour. He highlighted how Nair had been moved around the batting order but maintained strong rhythm and composure. He also noted that returning to the Test side after a long gap brings pressure, and commended Nair for absorbing it well and performing with maturity.
“Karun has been asked to do a tough job on the tour. Started off at No.6, then at No.3 for the next two Tests. We always thought that his tempo and his rhythm was very good. He is a quality player, particularly for that reason, and he can absorb pressure. When someone comes back into the Test side, like he does after a lengthy absence, the pressure is always there. I think he has handled that very well,” ten Doeschate stated.
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Ten Doeschate further praised Nair’s ability to adapt quickly
Ten Doeschate further remarked that Nair has had a solid tour so far, even if he hasn’t produced headline-making performances. He noted that Nair has now put himself in a position to build a significant, match-defining innings. He also praised Nair’s adaptability and attitude, calling it a credit to his versatility, and added that despite being asked to bat at No.6, Nair never once complained.
“I think he has had a really good tour without blowing the lights out. He has given himself a chance now tomorrow to get a big, meaningful score for the team. I’d say today probably suited him quite well given the conditions, walking in when he did, it is not too dissimilar to what a No.3 or No.4, which is his preferred position, would walk into. I think it’s a feather in his cap that he is so versatile. Personally, I thought No.6 was a big ask, but he has never complained,” ten Doeschate further added.
