Over the past four years, Abhimanyu Easwaran has narrowly missed out on making his debut for the Indian Test team on two occasions, the most recent being during the South Africa tour in December last year. Easwaran has been in exceptional form in domestic cricket, recently scoring four centuries in consecutive matches, showcasing his readiness for the big stage.
His stellar run began with the Duleep Trophy in mid-September, where he posted an unbeaten 157 in the second round, followed by a score of 116 in the third round. Easwaran carried this form into the Irani Cup, registering a solid 191, and then continued with an impressive 127 for Bengal in their Ranji Trophy opener last week. Despite these remarkable performances, the India selectors overlooked him once again for the Test series against New Zealand.
In an interview with The Indian Express, the Bengal opener acknowledged that the decision gave him a sense of “clarity” regarding his future. “I realized I needed to focus on continuing to play in the Ranji Trophy. I went back to my preparation and ensured I didn’t change anything just because I wasn’t selected. If something’s on my mind, I discuss it with my friends or coach to clear my head,” Easwaran shared.
In the past four years, Easwaran has come close to making his Test debut, most recently when he replaced an injured Ruturaj Gaikwad during the South Africa tour in December. Reflecting on the near misses, he admitted it has been challenging but emphasized the importance of persistence. “At times, you feel like giving up. But then you have to face reality. The things I did well in domestic cricket earned me a spot in the squad. Just because I haven’t played yet doesn’t mean I need to change anything. It’s about staying prepared for when the opportunity arises.”
Rumors of Replacing Rohit Sharma in the First Australia Test
In recent reports, there have been speculations that Indian captain Rohit Sharma might miss the opening Test against Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, with Easwaran emerging as a potential replacement. This news follows earlier claims that Ruturaj Gaikwad is being considered as the back-up opener for the series. Gaikwad is also expected to lead the India A side in a practice match against the main squad, led by Rohit Sharma, ahead of the Australia series.
Easwaran, who is likely to be included in the India A squad, expressed excitement about the opportunity to tour Australia. “Playing in the same conditions where the Test series will be held gives you a chance to adapt. Even if you get just one game, it ensures you won’t feel out of place. It provides an extra advantage,” he noted.
Despite the ongoing speculation, Easwaran remains focused on his preparation and is ready to seize any opportunity that comes his way.
