Gautam Gambhir's special words for Karun Nair ahead of Test series vs England, says 'The amount of runs he got, it’s inspiring for the entire team'

Team India's head coach Gautam Gambhir delivered a rousing speech in a huddle meet as Shubman Gill's brigade gather in London ahead of their all-important English assignment. Gambhir welcomed the new captain, strength and conditioning coach and the players receiving their first call-up.

Gautam Gambhir lauds Karun Nair

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video featuring members of the Indian cricket team's support staff and players. In the video, Gautam Gambhir greeted the strength and conditioning coach, Adrian le Roux. But he gave a special mention to Karun Nair, who is returning to the Indian team after a gap of seven years, as well as Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh, both of whom have received their maiden Test call-ups for this Test series against England.

While lauding Karun Nair, Gambhir said that the never say die attitude is something that has got the veteran batter back into the team.

"Guys, comebacks are never easy. Someone who has made a comeback after seven years, had a phenomenal last year, the amount of runs he got and most importantly the never say die attitude is something that has got you back into the team. That is something which is inspiring for this entire group. Welcome Karun!," Gambhir said.

Nair recently proved his batting might in the warm-up unofficial Tests against England Lions where he amassed 259 runs in three innings including a robust double century.

Nair last featured in a Test match in 2017, a few months after making history as only the second Indian batsman to achieve a triple century in the format. Since then, his career has encountered obstacles, including a period where he was dropped by his domestic team, Karnataka. However, the right-handed middle-order batsman reignited his career by joining Vidarbha as a professional player before the 2023-24 season. His efforts culminated in him finishing the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season as the fourth-highest run-scorer, amassing 863 runs across 16 innings, which included four centuries.

Nair has previously showcased his talent in English conditions while representing Northamptonshire in Division 1 of the County Championship. During his time there, he maintained a strong average of 56.61 across 14 innings, scoring two centuries, including an unbeaten 202.

India will play a five-match Test series against England which is set to start from June 20 at the Headingley Cricket Ground in Leeds.