Kumble Wants Karun Nair to Inherit India’s Iconic Test No.4 Role

Former head coach Anil Kumble has named his replacement for Virat Kohli’s number 4 spot in test cricket. Following the batter’s retirement, the vacant spot has caused a stir in the Indian cricket scene.

Indian spinner Anil Kumble has revealed the candidate he deems to be ideal for the no. 4 spot in tests, suggesting Karun Nair’s name. As the management has started to look for Kohli’s replacement, Kumble has given Karun Nair’s name to fill the spot. He mentioned Nair’s success in the domestic season, and that he has experience playing in England.

Dilemma of the No. 4 Spot

“I don’t think anybody thought through who’s gonna bat at No.4. Rohit in Australia didn’t play the first Test, so there was a change in the batting order. Once Rahul did well, Rohit dropped down the order and then he dropped himself from the XI in that last Test. So you sort of know who is the backup opener for India, but I don’t think anyone thought through No.4,” Kumble told ESPNCricinfo.

‘Perhaps Nair could be the No.4’

“Karun deserves to come back into the Indian team with the kind of domestic run he has had. So perhaps he could be the No.4 for India because I feel, you need a bit of experience. You need someone in England who has been there and done that. He has played County cricket, so he knows the conditions. Karun may be on the other side of 30, but he is still young. If he gets an opportunity, there will be a lot more hope for youngsters to play first-class cricket. If the sheer performance in domestic cricket doesn’t get recognised, it becomes a bit of a challenge,” the former India captain and head coach added.

Nair played an important role in Vidarbha’s victory in the Ranji Trophy 2024-2025. With 863 runs in 16 innings, he became the fourth highest run scorer in the series. He averaged at 53.93, featuring 4 hundred and 2 fifties.

Nair Likely to be in India A Squad

Nair is likely to be picked in the India A Squad, which will face the England Lions in two four-day matches during the May-June window in preparation for the five-match Test series against England.

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