ENG vs IND 2025: Big blow to India, Karun Nair injured before Headingley Test

Karun Nair

Indian batsman Karun Nair is going to return to Test cricket after almost eight years

Indian batsman Karun Nair is going to make a comeback in Test cricket after almost eight years. He will be seen playing in the series against England. He is expected to play in the first Test starting at Headingley. However, bad news has come about him. He got injured during practice at Headingley, Leeds on Wednesday. But his injury is not serious.

In fact, Nair, who is hoping to play his first Test match since 2017, was hit on his ribs by a fast ball from fast bowler Prasidh Krishna during a net session. He looked in a bit of pain due to this injury. But he started batting again soon. Later after the batting session, he showed the support staff and team members the place where the ball hit him.

There was a time when Karun Nair was considered a future star. He became the second player from India to score a triple century in Tests, but despite the brilliant performance, he was dropped from the team. However, he performed solidly in the 2024-25 domestic season. Recently Nair scored a double century in the India A vs England Lions series.

England announced the playing XI

England have announced their playing XI for the first Test against India at Headingley from Friday. All-rounder Chris Woakes is returning to the team for the first time since December. At the same time, fast bowler Brydon Carse will play his first Test on home soil.

England’s playing XI for the first Test against India

Jack Crowley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir

FAQ

What happened to Karun Nair ahead of the Headingley Test?

Karun Nair suffered an injury just before the Headingley Test match between England and India in 2025. The nature of the injury has not been officially detailed, but it is serious enough to rule him out of the match.

Will Karun Nair miss the entire England series?

It is currently unclear if he will miss the whole series. His availability for future matches will depend on his recovery and fitness updates from the Indian team management.

Who is likely to replace Karun Nair in the playing XI?

The team may consider middle-order options like Hanuma Vihari, Sarfaraz Khan, or a backup batter from the squad. The final decision will depend on team strategy and pitch conditions.

When will the Headingley Test between India and England begin?

The Headingley Test is scheduled to start on June 20, 2025, as part of the Test series between India and England.

How important was Karun Nair to India’s playing XI?

Karun Nair is a technically sound batter with experience in English conditions. His absence is a setback, especially if India were planning a flexible middle-order setup.

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