The prolonged wait for a Test cap by Bengal's prolific opener, Abhimanyu Easwaran, stands as one of the most perplexing narratives in contemporary Indian cricket. Despite amassing mountains of runs in the domestic circuit, the 30-year-old has watched from the sidelines as India's Test squad has been selected time and again.
A Stellar First-Class Record Ignored
Easwaran's credentials in the longer format are beyond reproach. Over 109 first-class matches, he has accumulated a formidable 8136 runs at an impressive average of 47.85. This consistent run-scoring for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy has, however, failed to secure him a spot in the playing eleven, even after being included in the national squad on multiple occasions.
Many observers point to his absence from the Indian Premier League (IPL) and a limited reputation in white-ball cricket as potential handicaps. In an era where selectors often appear to value shorter-format prowess for Test selection, this perceived lack of versatility is seen as a barrier for the technically sound opener.
A T20 Blitz Changes the Conversation
In a deliberate move to alter this perception, Easwaran recently unleashed a stunning display of power-hitting. During a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20 clash against Punjab, the right-hander blasted 130 runs off a mere 66 balls. Although his team, Bengal, did not clinch victory, the innings served as a powerful statement of his adaptability.
This knock did not go unnoticed in the cricketing fraternity. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin referenced it wryly on his YouTube show, 'Ash Ki Baat'. Taking a subtle dig at the selection committee, Ashwin remarked, "Abhimanyu Easwaran scored a hundred in T20 also now. Now we can get to see him for sure now. Given that he has now scored runs in T20, for sure we will get to see him in the Test team now."
The Mental Battle and Road Ahead
The repeated snubs have undoubtedly taken a toll. Speaking to Revsportz in October, Easwaran openly acknowledged the hurt. "Yes, it does hurt sometimes," he admitted. "You put in all the effort, train hard, and the dream is to be in the middle, to perform, to contribute to wins."
He credited his strong support system of family, friends, and coaches for keeping him grounded and motivated. Despite the setbacks, Easwaran stated he is in a good mental space and is focused on the upcoming Ranji Trophy season. Critics have sometimes pointed to his returns in India A games not being as commanding as his domestic form, a gap the determined batter will be keen to address.
The story of Abhimanyu Easwaran is no longer just about red-ball consistency. By adding a explosive T20 century to his resume, he has forcefully reminded the selectors of his evolving game. Whether this calculated aggression finally becomes the key to unlocking the door to the Indian Test team remains the burning question.
