In a tense moment during India’s training session ahead of the first Test against England, Karun Nair was struck on the body by a sharp delivery from pacer Prasidh Krishna. The blow landed on Nair’s ribs near the abdomen. While the batter appeared to be in discomfort, he resumed batting shortly after, easing some of the early concerns.
It happened during India’s practice session on Wednesday at Headingley. The team has been training here for the upcoming five-match Test series versus England, which will begin on June 20.
Karun Nair scored a triple-century in just his third Test match in December 2016. After just a few failures, he fell out of favour. However, a dream run in domestic cricket put him back into the Indian Test fold.
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Karun Nair Feels the Heat in Nets, Escapes Serious Injury
Prasidh Krishna, known for his sharp bounce, was operating in full rhythm during the nets. A short-pitched delivery rose unexpectedly and thudded into Nair’s left side, near the ribs. He was clearly in pain for a brief period but continued his batting session.
For Nair, the blow could have been a major setback. However, his decision to carry on after the hit suggests he has not suffered anything serious.
He was later on spotted showing the support staff and his teammates the area where the ball hit him.
Notably, Nair recently scored a double century in the first unofficial Test against England Lions and with the No. 3 spot still up for grabs, the team management could be seeing him in that role.
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Rishabh Pant Confirms Shubman Gill at No. 4 in New-Look Batting Order
India’s vice-captain captain Rishabh Pant offered clarity on the team’s batting plans for the first Test during a media interaction. Speaking to reporters after the training session, Pant confirmed that Shubman Gill will take up the No. 4 spot, a position previously occupied by Virat Kohli, while he himself will bat at No. 5.
Pant also informed that the team has yet not decided who will bat at No. 3.
Meanwhile, England have already announced their playing XI for the Headingley Test, starting June 20. There are no surprises. Chris Woakes is returning from an ankle injury, while Ollie Pope has been preferred over Jacob Bethell.
