India’s Test tour of England in 2025 has offered plenty of batting brilliance, but Karun Nair and Sai Sudharsan haven’t been part of that party. Both came in with promise, both were backed with opportunities, and yet, their numbers paint a sobering picture.
Underwhelming Numbers That Tell the Story
Karun Nair, once hailed for his historic triple century in 2016, was touted for a fairytale comeback into the Indian Test setup but he managed only 205 runs across 8 innings on this tour. His average? Less than 26. He struck just one half-century, the only bright spot in what could likely be his final outing in Indian colours.
With his 34th birthday not far off, and the competition for middle-order spots as fierce as ever, this might have been his last chance, and unfortunately, he didn’t quite grab it. Sai Sudharsan, 10 years younger, was given a golden opportunity to cement his place. But his returns, 140 runs in 6 innings at an average of 23 with just one fifty, have done little to inspire confidence. Despite his age advantage, Sudharsan’s performances haven’t solidified his spot either.
When Everyone Else Delivered
What’s even more glaring is the contrast with the rest of India’s batting lineup. Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja—all have scored at least 400 runs this series. Even Washington Sundar, coming in lower down the order, made significant contributions with the bat. On mostly good batting pitches, Nair and Sudharsan were the two clear weak links.
The Selectorial Dilemma
And it’s not like the team was short on options. Players like Abhimanyu Easwaran didn’t get a single game. Dhruv Jurel only got the opportunity when Pant got injured. Sarfraz Khan was left out altogether—ironically, to make room for Nair and Sudharsan. With India set to face South Africa next in Tests later this year, the selectors will undoubtedly have a lot to think about.
What’s Next?
Given the performances, it’s almost certain that changes are coming. While Sudharsan may still find a place in future squads based on age and potential, Karun Nair’s time in the Indian Test setup might be nearing its end. The tour has made one thing clear: opportunities are limited and performances matter. Going forward, India’s bench strength and batting depth mean the margin for error is narrower than ever.
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