Bengaluru, Jul 22 (UNI) Indian cricketer Karun Nair is set to return to Karnataka for the 2025–26 domestic season, marking a homecoming after a successful two-year stint with Vidarbha.
The 33-year-old top-order batsman, who had moved to Vidarbha in 2022, made the announcement today, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) for their support and care during his tenure.
“I’d like to thank VCA for everything they’ve done for me in the last two years. Whatever I’ve achieved in the last two years is credit to how they managed me and took care of me like I was their own. Grateful to the VCA, and all the players and support staff,” Nair said in a statement.
Reflecting on his time with the team, the India Test batsman added, “As a team, we achieved special things. The atmosphere was so positive. The opportunity to lead such an amazing bunch during the Vijay Hazare and achieving success in the Ranji Trophy is something I will look back on very fondly.”
Nair, who became only the second Indian to score a triple century in Test cricket during a match against England in 2016, now re-joins his home state side with hopes of rejuvenating his international career. His inclusion is expected to bring both stability and leadership to Karnataka’s batting lineup, which is already brimming with emerging talent.
During his spell with Vidarbha, Nair scored 863 runs in 16 innings at a solid average of 53.93, including a crucial century in the Ranji Trophy final against Kerala. His form in the domestic circuit has been encouraging, though he has struggled to replicate it on the international stage, managing scores of 0, 20, 31, 26, 40, and 14 in the ongoing England Test series.
Despite these challenges, Nair’s return is seen as a major boost for Karnataka’s campaign in the coming season, both for his on-field prowess and the experience he brings to the dressing room.
