“A beautiful 30 is not expected from a No.3” - Farokh Engineer opens up on Karun Nair not scoring big knocks

Former Indian keeper-batter Farokh Engineer has opened up on Karun Nair’s poor form in the ongoing England tour. Notably, Nair made a Test comeback after an eight-year gap, courtesy of his exceptional run in domestic cricket.

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In the ongoing England series, Nair could score only 131 runs from six innings at an average of 21.83. Though he got scores of 30s and 40s, he failed to capitalize on them. Engineer stated that Nair needs a bigger knock as there are a lot of expectations on him.

"Karun Nair has been getting brilliant 20s and 30s. He's (Nair) scored beautiful 30 runs, beautiful cover drives and all that. But a beautiful 30 is not expected from a No. 3. You've got to get a not-so-beautiful 100. You need runs on the board. You need (to score) bigger. The expectation should be much higher," Engineer told TOI.

While Nair played at No.6 and Sai Sudharsan took up the No.3 spot in the opening Test in Leeds, later Sudharsan was dropped to bring in Nair to the top-order. However, Engineer feels that if the Tamil Nadu batter is good, he should be a part of the XI in the Manchester Test.

"We should pick the best XI. I haven't seen much of Sai Sudharsan. You've got to pick the best player for the time being. Who's going to give you maximum? You are playing for your country. Your reputation is at stake. So, I would say, forget the age. If he's good, play him to win this Test match," said Engineer.

Team India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, in his recent media briefing, stated that Nair has been maintaining good rhythm and temperament, and he will be backed at the No.3 spot in the Manchester Test. Team India is scheduled to play England in the fourth Test, starting on Wednesday, July 23, at Old Trafford in Manchester.

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