Nair May Make Way for Padikkal – Selection Twist Ahead of West Indies Tests 🌟

Dubai7|23/9/2025|

As selectors finalize India’s squad for the two-Test series against West Indies, the buzz is that Nair may make way for Padikkal. Karun Nair, who earned a much-awaited recall for the England Tests, struggled to make an impact, while Devdutt Padikkal has surged into contention after a standout performance for India A.

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Karun Nair’s Missed Second Chance

Nair, 33, had famously asked for a second chance in international cricket. That opportunity came in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England, but he could only manage 205 runs in four Tests at an average of 25. His top score was 57 at The Oval, modest numbers in a high-scoring series featuring 21 centuries.

The concern for selectors is not just the lack of runs but also the manner of dismissals. Since returning from England in early August, Nair has not featured in competitive cricket, raising further doubts.join

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Padikkal’s Strong Push for Selection

Meanwhile, Devdutt Padikkal has made a strong case by smashing a superb 150 against Australia A in Lucknow. Already part of India’s extended squad during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the left-hander looks set to replace Nair in the West Indies series.

👉 See also: Jasprit Bumrah India balance point

Other Selection Updates

Rishabh Pant remains sidelined with a toe fracture and continues rehab in Bengaluru.
The batting core of Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, and KL Rahul is expected to remain intact.
All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel will again play pivotal roles, with Kuldeep Yadav adding depth.
Dhruv Jurel, who hit a century against Australia A, will continue as first-choice keeper, with N Jagadeesan as back-up.
Pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna are likely to lead the attack, though Bumrah’s fitness post-Asia Cup will be monitored.

There is also a possibility of Nitish Reddy being included as the 15th member.