As Team India gears up for the highly anticipated 5-match Test series against England starting June 20, one of the most talked-about names in the squad is that of Karun Nair — a player who had almost vanished from the international radar. But just before his remarkable return, the batter has made a stunning revelation: a senior Indian player once told him to retire.

Yes, the man who once etched his name in history with a triple century was told to walk away from the game — just two years ago.

Karun Nair Speaks Out: "I Was Told to Retire"

In an interview with Daily Mail, Nair opened up about the moment that could have ended his cricketing journey:

“I still remember a leading Indian cricketer calling me and telling me, ‘You should retire.’ He said the league money will secure my future.”

“But I knew deep down, if I quit, I would curse myself for it. I didn’t want to give up on playing for India. This was just two years ago — and look where I am now.”

Without naming the senior cricketer, Karun highlighted how close he came to giving up — only to make a triumphant return built on patience, self-belief, and raw domestic performances.

From Rejection to Redemption

After the 2022 domestic season, Karun Nair was dropped from Karnataka's all-format squad, virtually vanishing from top-level Indian cricket. He went nearly 14 months without competitive cricket.

But the turning point came when Northamptonshire offered him a County Championship deal. Nair grabbed the opportunity and delivered consistently, making selectors take notice once again.

Karun Nair: Record Holder With a Point to Prove

• Tests Played: 6

• Runs Scored: 374

• Average: 62.33

• Highest Score: 303*

• India’s Only Triple Centurions: Virender Sehwag and Karun Nair

Interestingly, against England, Karun averages a jaw-dropping 160 from three Tests — scoring 320 runs.