BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained why prolific domestic run-scorer Karun Nair was overlooked in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad, which was announced on Saturday (January 18).
Nair had strengthened his selection claims by scoring runs at an unreal average of 752 in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. The Vidarbha captain has been dismissed only once in the domestic 50-over tournament so far.
Out of the eight matches, Nair has batted in seven innings, registering scores of 112*, 44*, 163*, 111*, 112, 122* and 88*.
His remarkable performances caught the eye of many, including the lehendary Sachin Tendulkar, who praised Nair's consistency. However, the 33-year-old failed to break into India’s Champions Trophy squad.
Addressing the media, Agarkar acknowledged that it was a tough call to leave out Karun Nair. The chairman of selectors also said that the Vidharbha batter was in the scheme of things when they were picking the side for the 8-team tournament.
"Yeah, it was tough. Those are really special performances. Someone who averages 700-plus. We did have a chat," Agarkar told reporters.
Agarkar went on to say that securing a place in the current team is really difficult and highlighted the consistent performers already in the lineup. However, the chief selector went on to reveal that they have taken notice of Nair's performances and his name will be up for discussions if there is an injury or poor form concern.
"At the moment, finding a spot in the squad in this team is really difficult. Look at the guys who have been picked. All average well in excess of mid-40s. Unfortunately, you can't fit everyone in a squad of 15. But those performances certainly make you take notice. If there is a loss of form (for a player) or injuries, there's certainly going to be a conversation around him," Agarkar remarked.
India squad for the Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Rishabh Pant(wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal
