For over four years, Abhimanyu Easwaran has been a name synonymous with consistency in domestic cricket. The 29-year-old Bengal opener has piled up a mountain of runs, but a different kind of challenge has defined his career recently: the agonizing wait for a Test cap. A journey that began with his first call-up in 2021 has left him as a constant squad member, always on the brink, but never quite stepping onto the field.
The emotional toll of this wait was recently brought to light by his father, Ranganathan Easwaran. In a candid conversation, he revealed the words of comfort and assurance his son received from none other than India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir. “You’re doing the right things. You’ll get your turn and a long run. I’m not the one to push you out after one or two matches,” Gambhir reportedly told him. This powerful reassurance, a promise of a fair chance and unwavering support, has given Abhimanyu a crucial boost of morale. It’s a promise that goes beyond a single match; it’s an assurance that his dedication won’t be easily discarded.
Abhimanyu’s father believes his son’s career has been hindered by a key factor: the Indian Premier League (IPL). While many of his peers have used the league as a springboard to national fame, Abhimanyu’s lack of IPL exposure has kept him out of the constant spotlight. It’s a painful reality that his stellar performances in first-class cricket, where he boasts an impressive average of 48.70, often get overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of T20 cricket.
This frustration came to a head during the 2025 Test series against England. Despite a magnificent domestic season, Abhimanyu was overlooked, and his father openly questioned the logic behind selecting other players with less consistent records. This sentiment highlights a deeper conflict in Indian cricket: the struggle for recognition between players who excel in the traditional, long-form game and those who thrive in the shorter formats.
Yet, through all the near-misses and disappointments, Abhimanyu’s resolve remains unbreakable. After the England series snub, he immediately immersed himself in rigorous training for the Duleep Trophy. When his father shared his distress, Abhimanyu responded with a quiet maturity: “I understand. I’ve lived my dream for 23 years, and not getting picked for one or two matches won’t shatter that.” This unwavering spirit, combined with Gambhir’s promise, offers a beacon of hope. With veterans stepping away from Test cricket, the doors are opening for the next generation. All that’s left is to see if Gambhir’s promise translates into an opportunity for Abhimanyu to finally live his Test dream.
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