Rating the top 5 Test debutants of 2016

#1 Karun Nair - 9

Nair made headlines with his brilliant triple century against England

The 25-year old has been making the headlines ever since his majestic 303 not out against England during the final Test against England at Chennai. After spending the first two Test matches in the pavilion, Nair made his debut for India in the third Test at Mohali as a replacement for Ajinkya Rahane who was ruled out of the final two games due to an injury.

Nair made only four in the first innings but did not bat in the second innings as India strolled to an eight-wicket victory. In the fourth Test, Nair had another disappointing performance as he scored only 13 runs. However, he would go on to end his poor form in the best possible manner.

During the final Test match at Chennai, KL Rahul was completely dominating the England bowlers when Nair joined him at the crease. The duo put up a partnership of 161 for the fourth wicket before Rahul was dismissed for 199.

Nair then began to assert his authority on the England bowlers. The youngster became only the second Indian batsman to score a triple century in Tests and the first Indian player who converted his maiden Test century into a triple century. He remained unbeaten on 303 from 381 deliveries which was the fourth fastest triple century in Test history. The 25-year-old was adjudged the Man of the Match for his heroics with the bat.

Nair’s triple century made him very popular with the media and he earned comparisons to former legends of the sport. Provided the right-hander maintains his form, he could well become one of India’s finest batsmen in the future.