• Karun Nair’s emotional return to India’s Test XI at Headingley after eight years sparked jubilant celebrations among fans.

  • India’s new-look playing XI against England led by Shubman Gill and featuring debutant Sai Sudharsan signalled a bold new era in Indian cricket.

Fans erupt as Karun Nair returns to India’s playing XI against England after eight years in the Headingley Test
Fans erupt as Karun Nair returns to India’s playing XI against England after eight years in the Headingley Test (Image source: X)

Table of Contents

The cricketing world turned its gaze to Headingley, Leeds, as India faced England in the opening Test of the much-anticipated series on June 20, 2025. While the contest itself promises to be of high drama, Karun Nair will be seen donning India’s whites nearly after eight years . The 33-year-old’s remarkable journey back into the national fold became the emotional heartbeat of the day, as supporters celebrated a story of resilience, redemption, and unwavering belief.

Karun Nair’s comeback journey to the Indian side forged in grit and determination

Nair’s return to the Indian Test XI is nothing short of cinematic. Last seen in a Test match in March 2017, Nair’s career had been a rollercoaster—marked by a historic triple-century against England in 2016, followed by a puzzling omission and years on the sidelines. Despite being part of the 2018 England tour, he did not get a game and watched from the bench as opportunities slipped by. The years that followed tested his resolve, as he was dropped from his state side and left out of major tournaments, including the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Yet, Nair’s hunger never waned. He poured his energy into domestic cricket, amassing 863 runs in the 2024/25 Ranji Trophy and 779 runs in just eight innings of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His performances in the County Championship in 2023 and 2024 further underlined his readiness for a Test recall.

In a candid interview with BCCI, Nair revealed the daily motivation that fueled his comeback: “My first thought when I woke up was I want to play Test cricket, I want to play for India again. That’s probably what kept me going and kept me hungry”.

As he finally walked out at Headingley, the moment was not lost on fans or the man himself. “Life has come a full circle because I went out of the team in England and now I’m coming back into the team in England. So it’s been a while and I’m trying to embrace that,” Nair added, marking a poetic return to the very land where his Test journey had stalled.

Also READ: ENG vs IND 2025: England captain Ben Stokes addresses concerns over inexperienced bowling attack

Here’s how fans reacted:

A new-look India XI ushers against England in a fresh era

Nair’s inclusion was just one part of a youthful and dynamic Indian side, led for the first time in Tests by Shubman Gill. With stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin having retired, a new generation has stepped up to the challenge. The blend of experience and youth was evident, with debutant B Sai Sudharsan slotted at No. 3 and Nair at No. 6, signaling a bold new direction for Indian cricket. The team’s composition, with its mix of explosive batting and potent pace, was a testament to the selectors’ faith in fresh talent and the enduring value of perseverance.

Also READ: ENG vs IND 2025: Here’s why England and Indian players are wearing black armbands on Day 1 of Headingley Test

Subscribe to Cricket Times on YouTube to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Daily News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: Featured India Karun Nair Test Twitter Reactions

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.