Karun Nair injury scare clouds Team India’s Leeds Test plans: how serious is it?

Karun Nair’s injury scare ahead of India’s first Test against England at Leeds has cast a shadow over the team’s plans just days before the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle begins.

The Indian batter, who is poised to make a return to Test cricket after nearly eight years, was struck on the ribs by a delivery from pacer Prasidh Krishna during a net session. While the team management has not released an official medical update, insiders suggest the injury is not serious but remain tight-lipped.

"It does not seem to be very serious," sources said, though the uncertainty remains as the team finalizes its playing XI.

Nair’s recall follows a stellar domestic season, including a double century in the India A vs England Lions series and a key role in Vidarbha’s Ranji Trophy triumph. He has scored 259 runs in three innings during warm-up matches, reinforcing his claim for a spot.

"Karun Nair earned his long-awaited comeback following a record domestic season," highlighting his readiness to contribute.

This Test series is significant for India, marking the start of a new WTC cycle and the first time since 2011 the team will be without stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. The middle order is in flux, with Rishabh Pant confirmed at No. 5 and KL Rahul likely to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Nair’s fitness and form will be crucial as India seek a strong start. If selected, it will be his first Test appearance since 2017, when he famously scored a triple century against England.

"If Nair gets picked on Friday, it will mark his return to the Indian Test team after a gap of over seven years," underscoring the significance of his potential comeback.

The team’s cautious approach to his injury reflects the importance of having a fully fit batting lineup as they embark on this pivotal series.

Karun Nair suffered a minor rib injury during practice ahead of India’s first Test against England in Leeds, raising concerns about his availability. The batter, making a comeback after nearly eight years, impressed with recent domestic performances but faces uncertainty just days before the ICC World Test Championship opener.