New Delhi: As India prepares for the crucial 4th Test against England in Manchester, the spotlight is firmly on the playing XI. Under scrutiny is middle-order batter Karun Nair, who has faced criticism after underwhelming performances during the ongoing tour. With just 131 runs in six innings, including a duck, his place in the team appears uncertain.
However, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has come out in support of Nair, urging the selectors to show consistency in selection standards. “Karun hasn’t scored as expected, but he’s a good cricketer and deserves a fair chance,” Harbhajan said on his YouTube channel. “If players like Shubman Gill and KL Rahul are given multiple opportunities, then what crime have Karun Nair or Sai Sudharsan committed?”
Sai Sudharsan, who debuted in the first Test, was dropped after just one match where he scored 0 and 30. Harbhajan said that judging talent based on a single performance was unfair. “He’s a talented player and will bounce back. But if you’re backing Karun, then stick with him in Manchester,” he added.
The veteran spinner also called for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the playing XI for the Manchester Test. “Kuldeep brings in a wicket-taking option, and you don’t necessarily need a long batting line-up here. With Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja in the side, the team has enough depth,” Harbhajan said.
India trails 2-1 in the five-match series and is grappling with injury concerns. As the team eyes a series-leveling win at Old Trafford, selection decisions could prove crucial — and voices like Harbhajan’s are reminding the management to be fair and consistent.
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