The sudden retirement of Virat Kohli from Test cricket has sent shockwaves through Indian cricket, leaving a massive void in the heart of India’s batting line-up. As India prepares for the crucial Test series against England, the biggest question looming is—who will bat at No. 4?

Enter Karun Nair, a name that once lit up the cricketing world with a triple century but has since struggled to cement his place in the Indian side. However, former India captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble believes the time has come for Nair to reclaim his spot.

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Kumble highlighted Karun’s recent form in domestic cricket and his valuable experience in English conditions, having played for Northamptonshire in County Cricket.

“Karun deserves to come back into the Indian team with the kind of domestic run he has had. You need someone in England who knows the conditions. He’s played County cricket, and despite being over 30, he still has a lot to offer,” said Kumble.

He emphasized that recognizing domestic performance is critical to motivating young players to grind it out in first-class cricket.

Also Read: Karun Nair's magical run leaves 'God of Cricket' Sachin Tendulkar impressed 

Domestic Domination: A Season to Remember

Karun Nair has been scorching red-hot form across formats. Representing Vidarbha in the Ranji Trophy, he amassed 863 runs with 4 centuries and 2 half-centuries, averaging 53, and played a crucial role in Vidarbha’s title-winning campaign.

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024–25, Nair topped the charts with a jaw-dropping 779 runs in 8 innings, averaging 389.50, including 5 centuries and a fifty. His strike rate? An astonishing 124.04.

He continued his purple patch in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring 255 runs in six innings at a blistering strike rate of 177.08, proving his adaptability across formats.

One More Shot? England Lions Clash Could Be the Gateway

Nair is expected to feature in a 4-day match against England Lions ahead of the India-England Test series. A big performance could finally swing the selectors in his favor, setting up a sensational comeback story.

As the Indian team searches for stability in the post-Kohli era, Karun Nair’s bat is doing all the talking. With the backing of legends like Kumble and a mountain of domestic runs, he might just be the answer India needs at No. 4.