Despite scoring 7,841 first-class runs at an average close to 50, Abhimanyu Easwaran still has not received his maiden Test cap.
He was part of the squad for the five-match series against England that ended 2-2. Hopes were high that he might finally get a game but his name never made it to the playing XI list.
The disappointment hit harder in the final Test at The Oval. In the lead-up to the match, it seemed likely that Abhimanyu Easwaran could finally make his debut. Instead, the team management went another way and did not pick Abhimanyu. His father, Ranganathan Parameshwaran Easwaran, says that this left his son upset but only for a short time.
Abhimanyu Easwaran’s Father Reveals His Son’s Reaction and Gautam Gambhir’s Assurance
Speaking to Vickey Lalwani on his YouTube channel, Ranganathan recalled what his son told him after the news broke. He shared that Abhimanyu was understandably upset after learning he would not feature in the fifth Test.
"My son will fly to Bengaluru to prepare for the Duleep Trophy. He'll spend 10-12 days there, return to Dehradun for a few days, and then head back. He was disturbed after not being picked for the fifth Test—he was expecting that call. I told him, 'Son, you have lived your dream.' He replied, 'I understand. I've lived my dream for 23 years, and not getting picked for one or two matches won’t shatter that,'" Ranganathan said as quoted.
He added that Abhimanyu did not hide his frustration.
"He was pissed off because he wasn't picked. When I called him, he said, 'Dad, I still haven't found a place.'"
Ranganathan also spoke about a conversation between his son and India head coach Gautam Gambhir.
"Gautam Gambhir, when he spoke to my son, he assured him see you you're doing the right kind of things you'll get your turn you'll get a long run. 'I'm not the one who will push you out after one or two matches. I'll give you a long rope.' That's what my son communicated to me. The entire coaching team assured him that he'll get his due, he'll get his long run. That's the best I can say. My son is waiting for 4 years, He's put in 23 years of hard work," Ranganathan shared.
Abhimanyu Easwaran Named in East Zone Squad for Duleep Trophy 2025
Abhimanyu will now focus on the Duleep Trophy 2025, where he will represent East Zone. He will first train in Bengaluru before heading home briefly, and then join the squad for the tournament.
Ishan Kishan has been named the captain of the East Zone for the tournament. Abhimanyu will be his deputy.
With home Tests against the West Indies and South Africa coming up later this year, his performance will be closely watched in the Duleep Trophy.
Also read: Dhruv Jurel to Captain Central Zone; Karun Nair Ruled Out of Duleep Trophy 2025
