Introduction: In the ever-competitive world of Indian cricket, where talent overflows and opportunities are scarce, Abhimanyu Easwaran stands as a silent yet towering figure. The 29-year-old Bengal batter, with an astonishing tally of 7,674 runs in 101 first-class matches at an average of 48.87, has been on the cusp of an international debut for years. As he gears up for the upcoming five-match Test series against England in 2025, the question looms—could an IPL deal have already paved his path to the Indian team? His father, Ranganathan Easwaran, certainly thinks so. Let’s dive into the journey of this domestic giant and explore why his time might finally be near.
The IPL Factor and Missed Opportunities: Despite being named in India’s squad on multiple occasions, including the 2018 England tour and the recent 2024-25 Australia series, Easwaran has consistently been overlooked. During the 2018 tour, Hanuma Vihari pipped him to the spot, while Devdutt Padikkal was preferred Down Under in 2024. Ranganathan, in an exclusive chat with TimesofIndia.com, expressed his belief that an IPL contract could have changed the narrative. ‘Abhimanyu would’ve made his Team India debut long ago had he got a chance to showcase his prowess in the IPL. The tournament offers massive visibility. Unlike flamboyant players, Abhimanyu doesn’t celebrate extravagantly after centuries, which sometimes works against him,’ he lamented. The IPL, often a launchpad for young talents like Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad, remains elusive for Easwaran, whose understated style might have kept him off the radar of franchise scouts.
A Glimmer of Hope in England: The upcoming England Test series, starting in June 2025, offers Easwaran a golden chance to silence doubters. With Rohit Sharma potentially absent for parts of the tour due to personal commitments, and the opportunity to lead India A in preparatory matches, Easwaran’s stars might finally align. His vast experience across varied conditions in New Zealand, Australia, England, and the West Indies gives him an edge over other contenders. Former Indian selector Saba Karim has endorsed him as the ideal opener for India, citing his rock-solid technique. A standout performance for India A could amplify the clamor for his inclusion in the senior team.
Grueling Preparation for English Conditions: Easwaran is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for glory. Training in Dehradun, he follows a military-like routine, waking up at 5:30 AM to face express pacers from Delhi with Duke balls—the same used in English Tests. ‘We’ve organized two dozen Duke balls to ensure seamless preparation. He’s batting on a green wicket with red soil to mimic English bounce and is also honing skills against spinners for fourth and fifth-day scenarios,’ Ranganathan revealed. Easwaran meticulously studies every English bowler, preparing for all eventualities. His focus is absolute, with a strict bedtime of 9:30-10:00 PM and no distractions—personal milestones like relationships are on hold until he dons the Indian Test cap.
Mental Fortitude Inspired by ‘The Wall’: Facing repeated snubs could shatter anyone, but Easwaran draws inspiration from Rahul Dravid, aptly nicknamed ‘The Wall’ for his resilience. ‘Not being selected fuels my drive. Instead of knocking on the door, I have to break it. How can anyone shatter my dream?’ Easwaran has said, as quoted by his father. Ranganathan motivates him with analogies of soldiers training relentlessly for battle, a mindset reflected in Easwaran’s 23-year journey since starting cricket at age six. Close friend and Gujarat batter Aarya Desai describes Easwaran’s ‘mamba mentality,’ saying, ‘I’ve seen him push through everything. One of his phone wallpapers is the Indian Test cap—it means the world to him.’ Desai also dismisses criticism of Easwaran as a ‘slow batter,’ emphasizing his relentless focus on piling up runs.
Conclusion: As the England series approaches, Abhimanyu Easwaran stands at a crossroads. His domestic record speaks volumes, yet the elusive India cap remains just out of reach. Could this tour be his defining moment? Will the selectors finally reward his consistency and grit? While the IPL might have been a missed shortcut, Easwaran’s story is a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity. Indian cricket fans wait with bated breath to see if this unsung hero will finally step onto the international stage and etch his name among the greats. One thing is certain—Easwaran is ready to break down any door that stands in his way.