'Dreams in the head but that’s just motivation' - Karun Nair on Champions Trophy snub after successful Vijay Hazare Trophy

The Vidarbha skipper Karun Nair had a phenomenal run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25, where he ended as the highest run-getter of the competition with 779 runs at an average of 389.50. This gave him the hope of a national comeback within reach.

However, despite his exceptional performance, Nair’s name was absent from the 15-member squad announced by the BCCI for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Nair’s run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy was nothing short of brilliant. His run-fest included five centuries and a half-century, and remaining unbeaten in eight of his nine innings, with his average reaching 752 until the finals of the competition. Nair recently opened up on the Champions Trophy snub.

“Obviously, the possibility of an India comeback has to be on your mind. If you want to play for the country, you have to keep dreaming. There are these thoughts and dreams in the head but that’s just motivation,” Nair was quoted by Hindustan Times.

Finding a spot in this team is difficult: Ajit Agarkar

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar acknowledged Nair’s impressive form and revealed that his name was discussed during the selection meeting. However, he cited the incumbent members leave no room for selection. Notably, Nair breakthrough moment in international cricket came in 2016, after becoming only the second Indian after Virender Sehwag to score a triple century in Test cricket.

Also Read: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25, Final Review: Smaran, Shrijith, Manohar shine in Karnataka's finale triumph

However, his career hasn't seen many opportunities. He last played for India in 2018 and has since been working hard for a comeback through domestic cricket.

"I mean, those are really special performances and I mean someone who averages about 700+, 750 + or something, we did have a chat, no doubt about it, when those kind of performances happen. At the moment, to find a spot in this team is very difficult. Look at the guys who have been picked. All average well in excess of mid-40," Agarkar said in the press conference after BCCI named the Champions Trophy squad. 

"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," he concluded.