Gautam Gambhir has spoken out about Karun Nair‘s return to Test cricket after scoring a double century in the first unofficial Test between India A and the England Lions. Before departing for England, India’s head coach and new Test captain Shubman Gill addressed a number of problems, with Gambhir declaring Nair’s performance is “great for domestic cricket”.

The Indian coach emphasised that younger players must understand the value of performing well at the domestic level since it may lead to national selection. Gambhir also suggested that Nair’s expertise playing county cricket will benefit India throughout the tour. In the absence of veteran players such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Nair will be given more responsibility in England.

“It’s just great for domestic cricket. All the youngsters will know its importance. If you keep doing well there, doors are never shut for you. Always good to have the experience of Karun. He played County cricket there, and he is in really good form. His experience will come in handy,” Gambhir said in the press conference before India’s tour of England.

We won’t judge someone by one or two Test matches: Gautam Gambhir

Meanwhile, Gambhir reckoned that the Indian management does not judge the players based on their performances in a couple of matches and confirmed that the players will be given a consistent run.

“More importantly, we won’t judge someone by one or two Test matches. If someone has scored heaps of runs, he will be given a decent run so that he can show his talent at the international level,” Gambhir added.

In the first unofficial Test against England Lions, Karun was the top scorer with a 204-run knock in 273 deliveries, including 26 fours and a six. He scored runs consistently in domestic cricket in the 2024-25 season, which earned him a spot in India’s squad for the first time since 2017.