Abhimanyu Easwaran Dropped From Team Because of His Father’s Controversial Statements Against Gambhir and Selectors

Abhimanyu Easwaran’s wait for a Test debut continues, and now former India opener Kris Srikkanth has floated a surprising theory behind his absence from the squad.

Easwaran, who has travelled with the Indian Test team for more than two years as a backup opener, was left out of the squad for the two-match home series against the West Indies in October.

Despite strong performances in domestic cricket, the Bengal batter has struggled to convert opportunities in India A and overseas tour games. That, combined with India’s abundance of opening options, has left him on the sidelines once again.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth suggested Easwaran’s omission may not be entirely down to cricketing reasons. “I feel bad for Abhimanyu Easwaran. I think his father made some strong statements (after England), and maybe that’s why they’ve dropped him now,” he said.

Easwaran’s father, Ranganathan, had openly criticised the selectors and coach Gautam Gambhir after India’s 2-2 series draw in England earlier this year.

He accused the management of overlooking his son despite assurances of a longer run, while fast-tracking players with IPL success ahead of him.

Agarkar’s Call Seen as Justified

At the same time, Srikkanth admitted that chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s explanation for leaving out a reserve opener in home conditions was logical.

“Agarkar’s reasoning on not needing a backup opener at home was fair,” Srikkanth said.

India already has KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal set to open, along with multiple options in the middle order who can shift up if needed. That depth, combined with Easwaran’s inconsistent A-team outings, meant there was little space for him in the 16-man squad.

India’s Test series against the West Indies begins in Ahmedabad on October 2, with Easwaran once again watching from the outside as his wait for a maiden cap goes on.