Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Karun Nair sends strong message to Agarkar after Test snub with 174* for Karnataka

Indian batter Karun Nair, who was recently dropped from the Test squad for the West Indies series, has sent a powerful message to the national selectors with a stunning unbeaten 174 in Karnataka’s Ranji Trophy 2025-26 clash against Goa.

Nair’s omission from the Indian Test team for the West Indies and South Africa A series had grabbed significant attention, especially after his promising return earlier in the year. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee had cited inconsistent performance as a concern, with Nair managing only 205 runs at an average of 25.62 during the England tour.

“We expected more from Karun Nair in England. It cannot be about just one innings. Devdutt Padikkal offers more options to us. We want to give at least 15-20 chances to every player, but it is not possible every time," Agarkar had said during the squad announcement for West Indies series.

But the veteran batter, who famously smashed a triple century against England in 2016, is hoping to make another comeback to the national team. Walking in when Karnataka's scorecard read 26/2, Nair stabilized the innings through crucial partnerships, first a 94-run stand with Shreyas Gopal (57) and later a 60-run stand with Vijaykumar Vyshak (31). He reached his century on the morning of Day 2, recording his 25th First-Class hundred, his first since returning to Karnataka after a stint with Vidarbha. He went on to remain unbeaten on 174 off 267 balls, lacing his knock with 14 fours and three sixes.

Unfortunately, he was denied a double century after the last man, Vidhwath Kaverappa, was run out going for a non-existent second run. Still, Nair’s efforts lifted Karnataka to 371, giving their bowlers a strong total to defend. Notably, the 33-year-old, having crossed 8,850 First-Class runs with an average nearing 49, has had an impressive run in the domestic circuit.