India's Cricket Dilemma: Karun Nair at No. 3 Amid Selection Pressure

In the ongoing India tour of England, the selection of Karun Nair for the crucial No. 3 batting position has sparked significant debate among cricket analysts and fans alike. Nair, at 33 years old, has had a mixed performance thus far, scoring 31, 26, 40, and 14 in his four innings. Despite these modest numbers, team management appears to favor continuity in a position traditionally critical for building innings in Test cricket.

Historically, the No. 3 spot has been a pivotal role for India, with legendary players like Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara having set a high standard. Since Pujara's decline post-2020, the Indian batting order has been in search of stability. Nair's selection reflects a cautious approach by the coaching staff, who acknowledge his experience and the necessity of maintaining a settled batting lineup amidst ongoing changes.

According to Ryan ten Doeschate, India’s batting coach, "We feel his rhythm is good, his tempo is good. We want more runs from the three. But the message is mainly, let's really focus on what we've done well and tidy up the little things that have cost us results, essentially" (Cricbuzz, 2025). This statement underscores a belief in Nair’s potential to improve rather than a dismissal of his current form.

Critics, however, argue that Nair has failed to capitalize on his opportunities, especially with promising alternatives like Sai Sudharsan waiting in the wings. Sudharsan, at just 23, is seen as a player with long-term potential, especially given the increasing trend across international cricket toward younger talent. This sentiment is echoed by former players and analysts who believe fresh blood could bring much-needed vitality to the Indian side.

The pressure on Nair is compounded by the performance of other teams. For example, Australia recently replaced Marnus Labuschagne with Cameron Green at No. 3, while South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder was elevated to the same position during the World Test Championship Final. These decisions reflect a broader trend in cricket where teams are willing to make bold moves to secure better performances.

Moreover, statistics indicate that the No. 3 position has been volatile worldwide, with only 14 centuries scored by No. 3 batsmen outside Asia since the beginning of 2023, compared to 13 in Asian conditions alone (ESPN Cricinfo, 2023). This discrepancy highlights the unique challenges faced by players in different cricketing environments.

Historically, the 1996 tour of England serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change. Sanjay Manjrekar’s injury led to a young Rahul Dravid stepping in, altering the course of Indian cricket for years. This historical context adds weight to the current decision surrounding Nair's position, suggesting that the team may benefit from allowing him a fair chance to establish himself.

As India navigates this tour, the call for stability at the No. 3 position may be a crucial factor in their success. The cricketing world will be watching closely to see whether the selectors choose to continue with Nair or pivot to Sudharsan, reflecting a broader trend of youth versus experience in cricket today. Ultimately, the decision may not just affect the immediate series against England but could shape the future of Indian cricket as they seek to reclaim their status as a dominant force in the sport.