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Karun Nair Hits 2nd Ranji Century After Test Snub; Slams 142* in Message to Selectors

Shivansh Rana | 4 min read | 4 weeks ago | Nov 01, 2025 09:12 pm IST
Karun Nair Hits 2nd Ranji Century After Test Snub; Slams 142* in Message to Selectors

What do you do when you’re told you’re not quite good enough? If you’re Karun Nair, you let your bat do all the talking. After being dropped from the India Test squad, the Karnataka batter has just slammed his second consecutive century in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, making a powerful case for his return ahead of the South Africa series.

Key Takeaways

  • Karun Nair scored back-to-back centuries for Karnataka after being dropped from the India Test squad for the West Indies series.
  • He hit an unbeaten 174 against Goa on October 28, followed by an unbeaten 142 against Kerala on November 1.
  • Nair also crossed the major milestone of 9,000 first-class runs, becoming only the sixth Karnataka batter to achieve this.
  • His performance puts immense pressure on selectors for the upcoming home Test series against South Africa starting November 14.

The Rejection That Fueled the Fire

Look, getting dropped is tough. It’s even tougher when it happens after a tough tour of England. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar didn’t mince words, stating he “expected a little bit more” from Nair. For Nair, the decision stung. He felt he “deserved better, more than a series” to prove his mettle. But honestly, instead of just talking, he went back to the domestic circuit with a clear point to prove.

Centuries Speak Louder Than Words

And prove it he did. First, on October 28, he hammered an unbeaten 174 runs against Goa, a knock that helped Karnataka secure crucial points in a drawn match. But he wasn’t done. Not even close. On November 1, opening the third round match against Kerala, he did it again, scoring a brilliant unbeaten 142. It wasn’t just a century; it was a statement. During this knock, he also joined an elite club by crossing 9,000 first-class runs. What a way to answer your critics, right?

Expert Analysis: Veterans Rally for Domestic Stars

Nair’s performance comes at a time when the BCCI’s selection criteria are under scrutiny. Veteran players like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara have recently been vocal about the need to reward consistent performers in domestic cricket. Politician Shashi Tharoor also joined the chorus, advocating for players who grind it out in the Ranji Trophy. They argue that domestic form should be a primary ticket to the national team, and Nair is the perfect example.

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Social Media Storm: Fans Debate a Comeback

As you’d expect, Nair’s back-to-back tons have sent social media into a frenzy. Fans are fiercely debating whether this is enough for a Test recall. Some believe his form is undeniable and he deserves a spot in the squad for the South Africa series. Others remain cautious, pointing to his previous inconsistencies at the international level. The hashtags are flying, and the conversation is split right down the middle.

What This Means for the South Africa Series

Here’s the thing. The Indian team for the home series against South Africa, which kicks off on November 14, is yet to be announced. With these monumental scores, Karun Nair has thrown his hat squarely in the ring. He hasn’t just knocked on the selectors’ door; he has broken it down. Can they really ignore a player in this kind of red-hot form?

It’s a classic dilemma. Do you stick with the players who didn’t perform in England, or do you reward the one who went back and dominated domestic cricket? The pressure is now firmly on Ajit Agarkar and the selection committee. So, what do you think? Has Karun Nair earned his ticket back to the Indian Test team?