India’s must-win fourth Test at Old Trafford may see Sai Sudharsan step in at No.3 as Karun Nair struggles to make an impact.
Sai Sudharsan Set to Step In as India Rethinks No.3
Karun Nair’s long-awaited return to Test cricket is on shaky ground. With India trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, the team is reportedly ready to make one change for the fourth Test at Old Trafford, and it’s likely to be a big one: Sai Sudharsan in, Karun Nair out.
Nair, who returned to the Test arena after eight years, has struggled to convert starts into substantial scores. He’s looked elegant at times, particularly when driving through the covers, but he’s also appeared unsure — especially against deliveries that rise awkwardly off a length.
Lord’s Dismissal a Telling Moment
His dismissal in the second innings at Lord’s, where he chose to shoulder arms to an incoming delivery from Brydon Carse, raised eyebrows. It wasn’t just poor judgment — it spoke to a deeper uncertainty in his game.
For a team desperate to stay alive in the series, that kind of indecision is costly.
A Young Gun Waiting for His Moment
Sai Sudharsan, just 23, was left out after his debut to allow for added depth lower down the order. But with India now needing more solidity up top, the management seems ready to give him another go — and perhaps, a longer rope.
Dasgupta: Time to Look Ahead
Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta didn’t mince words when talking about the possible switch.
“If there’s going to be one change, it’s got to be Sudharsan in for Nair,” he said. “Karun has had starts, but nothing to show for it. He hasn’t looked settled.”
Dasgupta also made a poignant observation that may echo within team management:
“You don’t know when you’ll tour England again. So if you’re building for the future, now’s the time to invest in someone like Sai Sudharsan.”
The Clock Ticks for Nair
Karun Nair’s comeback story hasn’t played out the way he or the fans had hoped. From a triple-century hero to now fighting for survival, it’s a brutal reminder of how quickly things change in international cricket.
With just two Tests left and India’s hopes hanging in the balance, Old Trafford could mark a new beginning for Sudharsan — and possibly the end of the road for Nair.
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