New Delhi [India], June 19: As Team India prepares to face England in a much-anticipated five-match Test series starting this Friday at Headingley, Leeds, Delhi Capitals stars KL Rahul, Karun Nair, and spinner Kuldeep Yadav are set to don the national jersey.
While Rahul remains a key figure in India’s Test batting unit, the spotlight is also on Karun Nair, who is making a comeback to the Indian side after an eight-year hiatus. In a heartfelt statement, Rahul, speaking to Delhi Capitals’ media post-IPL 2025, lauded Nair for his resilience and hard work.
“We started playing cricket as 11-year-old boys, and this journey has had many ups and downs. He got his opportunity, scored a triple hundred, and then faced tough times. But his recent performances, especially in the last 2–3 years, have been outstanding,” Rahul said.
He praised Nair’s determination, referencing his stint in English County cricket: “The challenges he faced there and his drive to return to the Indian team despite it all is commendable. I hope both of us can continue to play for India for many more years.”
Discussing his own preparations, Rahul said he resumed training right after the IPL. “England is always a tough place to tour — especially against a strong home side. We are a young team, and it’s going to test us,” he added.
Rahul also reflected on the absence of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom announced their Test retirements earlier this year.
“I’ve never walked into a dressing room without Virat or Rohit. It’s going to be strange. They’ve been the backbone of Indian cricket for a decade. But we respect their decision, and now it’s our time to step up and take the team forward.”
With new faces stepping into leadership roles and seasoned players like Rahul guiding the younger lot, the India-England Test series promises to mark the beginning of a fresh chapter in Indian cricket.