Nagpur, March 1: Vidarbha’s seasoned batter Karun Nair continued his rich vein of form, scoring an unbeaten 132 against Kerala in the Ranji Trophy final on Saturday. His knock propelled Vidarbha’s overall lead to 286 runs, further strengthening their bid for their third title.
Nair’s century—his fourth in the red-ball competition this season—has taken his tally to 860 runs at an impressive average of 57.33. The 33-year-old, who remains one of only two Indian cricketers to have scored a triple century in Test cricket, was also in scintillating touch during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he amassed 779 runs in nine matches at an astonishing average of 389.50, including five centuries.
On India Call-Up: "Not for Me to Say"
With his consistent performances, Nair has made a compelling case for an India recall. However, when questioned about his chances of a national comeback, he remained diplomatic."I'm not the right person to ask. I cannot comment on that. My job is to keep performing in every game I play. If it happens, it happens," Nair said at the VCA Stadium after the fourth day’s play.
A Gesture for the Dressing Room
After reaching his ninth century of the season, Nair signaled the number ‘nine’ with his hands toward the Vidarbha dressing room. When asked about it, he clarified that it was a lighthearted message for the team’s support staff."I'd been speaking about it before this match that I've got eight centuries, and if I score another one, I'll show nine. It was just a fun conversation with Yash Thorat (Vidarbha's sidearm thrower) and others who always help us in practice," Nair explained.
When pressed further if the gesture held any deeper meaning, he responded with a smile, "You can take it however you want."
Vidarbha Aiming to Bat Long
With the Ranji Trophy final likely heading towards a draw—a result that would hand Vidarbha the title due to their first-innings lead—Nair emphasized the importance of batting as long as possible."When I went in, we were 7/2. It was important for me to stay and hold one end up, ensuring I played through the day. The focus remains the same for tomorrow—to keep batting as long as we can," he said.
His determination was evident after he missed out on a century in the first innings due to an unfortunate run-out at 86. Reflecting on that dismissal, Nair said, "I was very disappointed because I knew the hundred was there for the taking. But the second innings on the fourth day is always tough. I was determined to make it count."
"Not Many Get to Play Finals"
Having featured in multiple finals, Nair acknowledged the significance of the opportunity."Not many people get the chance to play in finals. I've been lucky to play four. Every time, I remind myself how fortunate I am to be in this position and try to make the most of it," said the former Karnataka batter.
On his future with Vidarbha, Nair remained non-committal, stating he would decide after the season ends.
Vidarbha, poised for their third Ranji Trophy title, will look to consolidate their advantage on the final day, with Nair’s unbeaten knock putting them in a commanding position.
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