India chief coach Ajit Agarkar answers why Karun Nair was not picked in the 2025 Champions Trophy squad.
At the press conference held on January 18, 2025. Ajit Agarkarhead coach of the league Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)addressed the exclusion decision Karun Nair from the Indian team for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the ODI series vs England. Nair’s absence has sparked considerable debate among cricket fans and analysts, especially given his outstanding performance in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Karun Nair’s impressive form
Karun Nair has been in sensational form, amassing 752 runs in just eight matches during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, with an astonishing average of 752 and four centuries. His recent performances have drawn praise from cricketing legends including Sachin Tendulkarwho hailed his achievements as “nothing short of extraordinary.”
Scoring 752 runs in 7 innings with 5 centuries is nothing short of remarkable, @karun126. Performances like these don’t just happen, they come from tremendous focus and hard work. Keep it up and make every opportunity count!
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 17, 2025
Nair’s resurgence in domestic cricket had many fans and pundits advocating his inclusion in the national team, especially given the inconsistent performances of some senior players.
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Explained by Ajit Agarkar
During the press conference, Agarkar acknowledged Nair’s outstanding statistics but explained that the selection committee faced tough choices when finalizing the squad. “A 750-plus average is just insane, but it’s a team of 15, so we can’t fit everyone in,” Agarkar said. He emphasized that while individual performances are crucial in domestic cricket, they must be balanced with team dynamics and the overall composition of the squad. Agarkar further clarified that the selectors had to consider various factors, including the players’ past international experience and their ability to play under pressure in high-stakes tournaments like the Champions Trophy. “It’s hard to find a place in this team with the talent we have,” he added.
As India prepares for the three-match ODI series against England starting on February 6followed by their Champions Trophy campaign starting today February 20all eyes will be on how the selected team performs. The team will face significant challenges as they aim to regain glory on the international stage, especially with a series of high-stakes matches against Pakistan and Bangladesh.
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