Reports: Karun Nair, Jitesh Sharma to leave Vidarbha

Published - 19 Jun 2025, 22:12 IST | Updated - 19 Jun 2025, 22:27 IST

Vidarbha are set to lose two of their key players, Karun Nair and Jitesh Sharma in a major development reported before the 2025-26 domestic season. Both players played pivotal roles in Vidarbha’s successful 2024–25 campaign, contributing significantly with the bat across formats. The Nagpur-based side were crowned Ranji Trophy champions, finished runners-up in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and reached the quarterfinals of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), with Nair and Jitesh being central to those performances last season.

Jitesh, who captained Vidarbha in white-ball formats, is reportedly on the verge of moving to Baroda. According to sources within the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA), his transfer is expected to be finalised within the next couple of days.

Jitesh is known for his aggressive batting style and leadership, and also made headlines during the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), where he was part of the title-winning Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad. BCA officials have confirmed that Jitesh will feature in both red-ball and white-ball formats for Baroda.

Karun Nair's comeback is truly commendable: KL Rahul

Meanwhile, Nair is believed to be planning a return to his home state of Karnataka for personal and family reasons. The 33-year-old is currently in England and eyeing a comeback to the national team after nearly eight years.

His domestic form has been exceptional, scoring 863 runs in the Ranji Trophy, making him the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament last season, and top scored in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 779 runs.

Nair’s potential return to Karnataka is seen as highly likely, with sources within the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) confirming ongoing discussions. He recently scored a double-century in an India A fixture against the England Lions. This performance has increased speculation about his inclusion in India’s playing XI for the first Test against England, set to begin on June 20 at Headingley.

The major exits, if truly transpire, will compel Vidarbha to restructure their squad and strategies.