Karun Nair slams double century, plays statement knock ahead of India-England Tests

Karun Nair slams double century, plays statement knock ahead of India-England Tests

Karun Nair has carried his supreme form to England, where he prepares for his much-awaited Test comeback in the upcoming series against England, starting from June 20 in Leeds. Nair is currently engaged in the first unofficial Test between India A and England Lions, presenting a case for himself as why he deserves a spot in the playing XI.

Nair went to slam a double century on Day 2 off the Test, after resuming from the overnight score of 186(246). Meanwhile, his efforts have drove India A to a massive total and they will be targeting to hit 500 before declaring the innings.

Nair has displayed a wide range of shots in his stay in the middle, laced with 25 boundaries and one maximum so far.

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Meanwhile, the form by Nair will lift India's confidence heading into the blockbuster series against England. The team has been hit with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's shocking retirement from the format, making the batting line-up appear a bit thin and inexperience.

If Nair does find his name in the playing XI for the series opener, he will make a return to the format after a gap of after nearly eight years. Nair is only the second Indian after Virender Sehwag to notch a triple century in Test, speaking volumes about his ability to dig deep and play marathon knocks. He last played a Test for India in 2017 and was recalled after a remarkable domestic season, which saw him amass 863 runs in nine Ranji Trophy matches; 779 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

In the IPL too, Karun showed glimpses of his stroke play in the limited chances he got while playing for the Delhi Capitals, who finished fifth after the league stage.