Despite being in the Indian Test squad since 2022, Abhimanyu Easwaran is still waiting for his debut. Many expected him to finally get his chance in the Oval Test against England, but the selectors instead picked Karun Nair, who returned to the playing XI after a long break. This decision has sparked outrage, particularly from Abhimanyu’s father, Ranganathan Easwaran.

“I’m counting the years, not days”

In a strong-worded statement, Ranganathan expressed his disappointment with team management:

“It’s been three years. I’m not counting days anymore — I’m counting years. What more should a player do beyond scoring runs?”

Abhimanyu has reportedly scored 864 runs in the domestic circuit from last year to now. Yet, he remains on the bench, while Karun Nair—who hadn’t been part of recent domestic competitions like the Duleep Trophy or Irani Trophy—was suddenly brought back.

Veiled criticism of Gill and Gambhir

Abhimanyu’s father indirectly criticized Shubman Gill and Team India mentor Gautam Gambhir, questioning the logic behind selections:

“Some players are being picked for the Test team based on IPL performances, which is unfair. Test cricket demands a consistent track record in Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy, and Irani Trophy.”

He added that Abhimanyu was a little disheartened, which he said was “only natural” after such long and repeated sidelining.

A solid domestic record ignored

Abhimanyu Easwaran has one of the most impressive domestic records among uncapped players:

• First-Class: 7841 runs in 103 matches

  • Average: 48.70

  • Centuries: 27

  • Half-Centuries: 31

  • Best: 233

• List A: 3857 runs in 89 matches

  • Average: 47.03

  • Centuries: 9

  • Best: 149

Fans also question the call

Cricket fans, too, have expressed frustration online, saying Easwaran deserved a chance ahead of a comeback player like Karun Nair, who had last scored a Test fifty over 8 years ago.