Karun Nair’s 8-year comeback ends in duck - Ben Stokes seals dramatic moment

Karun Nair’s much-anticipated return to international cricket after an eight-year absence ended abruptly with a duck on Day 2 of the first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds.

Nair’s comeback was historic, setting a record for the longest gap between appearances for a men's international cricket team, having missed 402 consecutive matches.

“Karun Nair got out for a duck on his return to the playing XI after eight years,” highlighting the challenges of returning to top-level cricket after a prolonged hiatus.

Meanwhile, India’s captain Shubman Gill shone brightly in his leadership debut, scoring a commanding 147 runs to anchor India’s innings.

“Shubman Gill marked his Test captaincy debut with a brilliant 147 against England at Headingley, leading India's charge in the first Test,” a performance that earned him a standing ovation from fans and teammates alike.

Gill’s century was his maiden as captain and came at a crucial juncture, helping India assert dominance early in the five-match series.

“This was his maiden Test century as captain, and it came in a crucial moment as India looked to assert dominance early in the five-match series,” underscoring his temperament and skill under pressure.

While Nair’s return was disappointing, the match overall showcased India’s emerging leadership and batting strength, signaling a new era post the Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma era.

The contrasting fortunes of Nair and Gill encapsulate the unpredictable nature of cricket comebacks and captaincy debuts on the international stage.

Karun Nair’s eight-year international hiatus ended with a duck in the first Test against England at Headingley, where captain Shubman Gill scored a commanding 147. Nair’s return marked a record 402-match gap between appearances, while Gill’s maiden century as captain helped India dominate the match.