Abhimanyu Easwaran is making headlines in Indian cricket as he gears up for the 2024-25 domestic season. The Bengal opening batter has started this season with a bang, showcasing his talent and determination to make his mark on the national stage. With scores of 157 not out and 116 in recent matches, Easwaran has continued a trend of exceptional performance that began last year. This consistent scoring has made him one of the standout players in the domestic circuit, raising questions about why he remains uncapped at the international level.
Easwaran’s first-class career is noteworthy. He boasts an impressive batting average of 49.4 over nearly eleven years, and since the start of 2023, he has accumulated 1,760 runs at an average of 62.9. His stellar form includes a remarkable 921 runs at an average of 76.8 this calendar year, emphasizing his ability to score big when it matters most. Easwaran’s performances have often been characterized by periods of both high and low scoring, a pattern that selectors may find concerning. However, his recent consistency may be a turning point.
Despite his impressive statistics, Easwaran has faced a challenging journey to gain recognition at the international level. He has been part of India’s ‘A’ team and has participated in various series, but has often been overlooked for the main squad. This exclusion can be attributed to the intense competition he faces from established players like Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who have solidified their positions as the current opening pair. Easwaran’s skill and form, however, make a compelling case for his inclusion, especially given the uncertainties surrounding injuries and player availability in the squad.
The selectors have previously acknowledged Easwaran’s talent; he was called up as a standby player for the Test series in England and later for the second Test against Bangladesh in December 2022. Unfortunately, despite his potential, he has been consistently pipped by other players for a place in the starting eleven. With injuries potentially affecting key players, there is speculation about Easwaran being included in the upcoming squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, particularly given his current form.
The question that lingers is whether Easwaran can break through the barrier that has kept him from representing India. He turns 29 this year, which is typically considered a peak age for cricketers. Many believe that he is at a crucial juncture in his career where he must capitalize on his form to secure a spot in the national team. As selectors weigh their options, Easwaran’s recent performances offer a tantalizing glimpse of his potential contribution to the team.
Easwaran’s story resonates with many aspiring cricketers who have faced similar hurdles in their quest for international recognition. His journey reflects the broader narrative of the cricketing world, where talent sometimes goes unnoticed amid fierce competition. With his strong batting skills and growing experience, there is a mounting sense of urgency for selectors to consider him as a backup opener, especially as they plan for future international commitments.
As Easwaran continues to pile on the runs, cricket enthusiasts and pundits alike are keenly watching his progress. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it counts will be vital in determining his fate in the national team. With each innings, he strengthens his case, making it increasingly difficult for the selectors to overlook his contributions. The upcoming matches will be crucial in shaping his future, and if he maintains his current trajectory, Abhimanyu Easwaran may soon find himself donning the Indian jersey, realizing a long-awaited dream.
In conclusion, Easwaran’s stellar performances highlight the possibility of a bright future for him in the Indian cricket landscape. If he can continue to perform consistently, he may finally get the opportunity he deserves, stepping into a pivotal role in the national team and contributing to India’s cricketing ambitions on the world stage. As the domestic season unfolds, all eyes will be on this talented opener, hoping for his long-awaited breakthrough in international cricket.