Ajit Agarkar explains Karun Nair’s omission from India’s Test squad for West Indies series

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), under chief selector Ajit Agarkar, has unveiled the squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies, beginning October 2 in Ahmedabad. The announcement has sparked discussions, primarily over the exclusion of Karun Nair, who recently staged a comeback but failed to cement his spot in the side.

Nair, who returned to the Indian Test setup after years on the sidelines, featured in four matches during the England series. He batted across different positions, including No.3 and No.6, but struggled for consistency. His returns amounted to 205 runs at an average of 25.62, with a lone half-century in the Oval Test that India narrowly won to clinch the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

The selectors hoped Nair would step up amid India’s transition following the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, but his performances were deemed insufficient. His omission underscores the selectors’ emphasis on immediate impact rather than prolonged opportunities, especially in the current competitive environment.

Addressing the media in Dubai, Agarkar provided a candid explanation for the decision to drop Nair.

“Frankly, we expected a little bit more from Karun. He’s played four Tests and we are talking about just one innings. That’s the way it is. Devdutt Padikkal offers a little bit more at this point. I wish we could give everyone 15 or 20 Tests, but unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way,” Agarkar said.

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The statement makes clear that the selection panel values consistency and impact, and is unwilling to persist with players who fail to deliver in crunch situations, particularly with several talented youngsters waiting in the wings.

The squad reflects a new phase for Indian Test cricket. Shubman Gill has been appointed captain, marking his first series in charge, while Ravindra Jadeja will serve as his deputy. The selectors have also rewarded Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal, two young batters who impressed in domestic and India A fixtures.

The leadership change and infusion of fresh talent come at a time when India are eyeing crucial World Test Championship (WTC) points. With a blend of seasoned names and emerging players, the selectors appear intent on building a side capable of sustaining success across formats.

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