Abhimanyu Easwaran has continued his exceptional run of form in first-class cricket, once again showcasing his potential as a future star for India in Test cricket. The 29-year-old Bengal opener is making a compelling case for his inclusion in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 squad, having recently scored his fourth consecutive first-class century. His latest ton, which came in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy match, adds to an already impressive tally of hundreds across the Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup, reinforcing his status as a highly consistent performer in red-ball cricket.
Easwaran’s latest century was not only a statement of his current form but also of his hunger for runs. He played a pivotal knock in Bengal’s second innings against Uttar Pradesh, scoring 116 runs off 141 balls, a commanding performance that included nine boundaries. This followed a rare failure in the first innings, making his second innings ton even more crucial for his team’s fortunes. Easwaran’s consistency this season has been remarkable, as he has now registered centuries in each of his last four first-class games, which include standout performances in the Duleep Trophy and the Irani Cup.
With a first-class career now boasting 27 centuries, Easwaran is averaging a spectacular 78.92 in 2024, having accumulated over 1000 runs in just 16 innings. This run of form is particularly timely as India prepares for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Many cricket fans and experts are advocating for Easwaran’s selection as a backup opener or even as a middle-order option, especially in the absence of senior players like Rohit Sharma, who may miss parts of the series. His impressive performances could potentially earn him a spot in India’s Test squad, with selectors likely to take notice of his continued success on the domestic circuit.
Easwaran’s ability to score heavily in different conditions and formats adds to his appeal as a reliable red-ball batter. In a season where Indian cricket is looking for stability and depth in its Test lineup, particularly in challenging overseas conditions, Easwaran’s adaptability and temperament make him a strong contender for a place in the squad. Despite not being a regular in limited-overs formats like the IPL, his dedication to mastering the longest format of the game is evident in his statistics and performances.
Moreover, his consistent form is not limited to the current season. Easwaran has been knocking on the door of national selection for a while now, having been a part of India’s extended squad for previous Test tours without yet making his debut. His steady accumulation of runs and knack for playing long innings in pressure situations show he is ready to step up to the international stage. The upcoming Test series against Australia offers a golden opportunity for India to test his mettle against one of the strongest teams in world cricket.
With Easwaran continuing to pile on runs, the debate around his inclusion in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad is intensifying. His recent run of form not only highlights his personal growth as a player but also strengthens India’s bench strength in red-ball cricket. As India eyes a crucial series against Australia, a player like Abhimanyu Easwaran, who is in the form of his life, could be exactly what the team needs to bolster its top-order options.