Abhimanyu Easwaran continued his remarkable run in domestic cricket, scoring yet another century for Bengal in their Ranji Trophy clash against Uttar Pradesh. This marks his fourth consecutive century in first-class cricket, further boosting his credentials as a potential backup opener for India ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The much-anticipated five-Test series in Australia is set to begin on November 22.
Easwaran’s latest century saw him remain unbeaten on 127 from 172 deliveries as Bengal declared their second innings at 254/3, setting Uttar Pradesh a target of 274 runs in just over a session. He built a strong 212-run opening partnership with Sudip Chatterjee, who narrowly missed his century, getting out for 93 off 151 balls. Chatterjee had also contributed with a century in Bengal’s first innings, scoring 116 off 227, helping the team post 311. Bengal’s bowling attack, led by Mukesh Kumar and Shahbaz Ahmed, who both claimed four wickets each, managed to restrict Uttar Pradesh to 292 in their first innings. At Tea on the final day, UP stood at 82/4 in their second innings, with Bengal aiming to clean up the remaining wickets to secure a win.
Easwaran’s recent form, combined with his consistent domestic performances over the years, has put him in contention for a backup opener spot for India’s tour of Australia. His performances are being compared with fellow opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, another strong candidate for the role. The competition for this position has intensified, particularly with uncertainty surrounding captain Rohit Sharma, who may miss one of the first two Tests due to personal reasons.
Easwaran’s recent first-class record is impressive, having scored centuries in four of his last five red-ball matches. His scores in the last 10 innings read: 127, 191, 116, 19, 157, 13, 4, 200*, 72, and 65, further solidifying his claim to the backup opener role.
While players like Shubman Gill and KL Rahul have opened for India in the past, they have since shifted to middle-order roles. Reports suggest that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is seriously considering Easwaran as the primary backup opener for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, regardless of Rohit Sharma’s availability.
Easwaran is also set to lead the India A team in Australia, where Ruturaj Gaikwad, his likely opening partner, is also being considered as a top contender for the backup opener spot. As both players prepare for the Australia tour, the competition between them will be closely watched.
The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be held in Perth from November 22 to 26, followed by the second Test, a pink-ball day-night affair, from December 6 to 10.
