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Seasoned batter Karun Nair has now disclosed that Vidarbha Ranji Trophy team was never his first choice after parting ways with Karnataka. Karun Nair has revealed that Kerala was a serious consideration when he sought a new team after leaving Karnataka. The 33-year-old explained that he initiated discussions with the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA), expressing his willingness to represent the state. However, these talks did not go forward and he ended up signing for Vidarbha.
Karun Nair wanted to join Kerala after leaving Karnataka
In 2023, while transitioning away from the Karnataka team, Nair explored various avenues for his cricketing future. He confirmed in an interview with the Malayalam channel 24 that he directly reached out to the KCA, expressing his interest in joining their squad. He further elaborated that the Vidarbha offer presented itself while the negotiations with Kerala were stagnating, prompting him to reassess his options.
Recognising the urgency of making a decision, Nair opted to join Vidarbha. He felt that the timing necessitated a swift resolution, and the Vidarbha opportunity aligned with his immediate goals, leading him to finalise his move.
"There were discussions about it. When I was sure I was going to leave Karnataka, I was look at my options. There was some talk about it, but it didn't go forward," Nair said amidst Vidarbha versus Kerala Ranji Trophy 2024-2025 final.
"I had offered myself to KCA, but it didn't go forward. At the same time, I got the offer from Vidarbha. I wasn't in a situation to wait, as I wasn't in a best spot. I wanted to clear my mind and that was only possible by joining a team. So I joined Vidarbha," Karun he added.
Despite his current commitment to Vidarbha, Karun Nair has left the door open for a potential move to Kerala in the future. He is still open to represent the state at some point in his career, indicating a continuing interest in the region's cricket scene.
"You don't know. If a situation like that comes up, we will see," Karun concluded.
Since his transfer to Vidarbha, Nair has been a force to reckon with in the Indian domestic circuit. Nair recently turned heads this year's Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he amassed a whopping 779 runs in just eight matches with an astonishing average of 389.50, garnered widespread attention. This remarkable display propelled him into contention for a late inclusion in the Indian Champions Trophy squad. Further demonstrating his current form, Nair contributed a crucial 86 runs in the first innings of the Ranji Trophy final against Kerala in Nagpur, reaffirming his value to the Vidarbha team.
