Abhimanyu Easwaran, despite being a consistent presence in India`s Test squads since his maiden call-up in 2021-22, has yet to make his debut. While 15 other players have debuted during this period, Easwaran remains uncapped, even after being part of the squad for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and not featuring in the recent West Indies Test series selection. His continued exclusion has reportedly angered his father, Ranganathan Easwaran, who publicly expressed his frustration after India`s tour of England. Abhimanyu boasts a strong first-class record, with 7,841 runs from 103 matches at an average of 48.70.
Krishnamachari Srikkanth, a veteran of India`s 1983 World Cup-winning team, speculated that Ranganathan Easwaran`s outspoken comments might have contributed to his son`s latest snub from the national squad for the West Indies series.
I feel bad for Abhimanyu Easwaran. I believe his father made some strong statements after England, and perhaps that`s why he has been dropped. However, Ajit Agarkar`s explanation about not needing a reserve opener at home seems reasonable.
BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar, when addressing Easwaran`s exclusion, confirmed that the team management`s decision stemmed from not requiring a third opener for home series.
Regarding Abhimanyu, we simply don`t need a third opener at home.
Earlier, Ranganathan Easwaran had made fiery remarks regarding the team selection process.
Gautam Gambhir assured my son, `You`re doing the right things, you`ll get your turn, and a long run. I won`t drop you after one or two matches; I`ll give you a long rope.` My son relayed this to me. The entire coaching staff promised him his due, a long opportunity. That`s all I can say. My son has been waiting for four years, after 23 years of hard work.
Easwaran Senior further argued:
He should have played lower down the order. There`s no doubt about it. No ill feelings towards Sai Sudharsan, but where does he fit in with scores of 0, 30, 61, 0 in Leeds and Manchester? They could have tried Abhimanyu, who has played approximately 30% of his matches on the green tracks of Eden Gardens, gaining valuable experience. His record clearly shows he is a player who can anchor an innings for a long time.
