JOIN USHaving managed just 41 runs in his first three innings, Karun Nair has turned the tables around in stunning fashion with three hundreds in as many matches. His latest century (107 batting) against Punjab in the semifinals has placed Karnataka in a dominant position. The 22-year-old spoke to the media at close of third day’s play on Monday. Excerpts.
On his approach: I wanted to bat patiently and it worked well. It was a good wicket to bat on and it was just the pressure they were putting on us that made the situation difficult. Just thought I had to hang around a bit and the runs would come.
On his Monday’s effort: I think, according to the circumstances, the last hundred (against Uttar Pradesh in the quarterfinal in Bangalore) was more crucial because we were 15 for 3. That wicket (in Bangalore) had a bit more, but considering this came in a semifinal, it's is also very special.
On the poor start to his first-class career: I felt, in my first three innings, I was anxious to score quickly but it didn't happen. I went back and practiced with the Under-25 team. (U-25 coach) GK Anil Kumar pointed out a few flaws in my technique and style, I just worked on it. I've been a batsman who got runs very easily in age-group cricket, that's why I found it hard when I wasn't getting runs in my first two games. I thought I'll play the same way but it didn't work, so I had to tighten up and become patient. The approach to each of my three hundreds was just the same, I waited for the loose balls. First two games where I didn't score, I was trying too much.
On his team’s position: I would believe (we're in a dominant position). We have the team to go all the way but it's not over yet, we need to bat as much as possible tomorrow and take it from there.