After more than seven years away from the longest format, Karun Nair is back in the Indian Test squad—and the emotions are understandably overwhelming. Named in the team for the upcoming Test series against England, the 32-year-old right-hander has been handed a second chance following the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Speaking in a video shared by the BCCI, Karun Nair admitted that words weren’t enough to describe how he felt. “It feels very special, very grateful, and very fortunate to get this opportunity again. I’m looking forward to it and want to grab it with both hands,” he said.

Nair, who famously scored a triple century against England in 2016 but faded from the scene shortly after, last featured in a Test during the 2017 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His selection marks a significant comeback, one shaped by persistence and domestic grind, especially on the county circuit in England.

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Interestingly, one of the first to share in Nair’s joy was his long-time friend and India teammate KL Rahul. The wicketkeeper-batter opened up about the emotional weight behind Nair’s return.

A comeback story with Karun Nair 🔝

P.S. – A special message from KL Rahul 👌#TeamIndia | #ENGvIND | @karun126 | @klrahul pic.twitter.com/PeYCsNtnxv

— BCCI (@BCCI) June 12, 2025

“I’ve known him for a very long time. The months he spent in the UK playing County cricket—away from home, often alone—were tough. But to fight through that and earn a recall is special, not just for him but also for his family and for us friends who’ve seen his journey up close,” said KL Rahul.

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Rahul also highlighted how Nair’s County stint could now serve him well in English conditions. “It’s very inspiring. Hopefully, all the experience and learning he gained here will help him perform when he gets a go in the Test series,” he added.

With the five-Test series set to begin on June 20, all eyes will be on Karun Nair as he looks to script a redemptive chapter in his stop-start Test career—this time, with valuable lessons learned, a hunger to prove himself, and the support of close friends like KL Rahul backing him every step of the way.