.svg){kind=small}
Abhimanyu Easwaran, a name that resonates with cricket enthusiasts, is a top-order batter for India. Born on 6th September 1995 in Dehra Dun, Uttar Pradesh, he has carved a niche for himself in the world of cricket. With a batting style that is right-handed and a bowling style that leans towards legbreak googly, Abhimanyu has showcased his prowess in various formats of the game. Representing Bengal in domestic cricket, he has been a consistent performer, making significant contributions with the bat.
Abhimanyu's journey into the world of cricket is a tale of passion and dedication. Born in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, to a Tamilian father and Punjabi mother, his early years were influenced by his father, Ranganathan Parameshwaran Easwaran, a chartered accountant. Interestingly, it was his father who laid the foundation for Abhimanyu's cricketing aspirations. Ranganathan started the 'Abhimanyu Cricket Academy' in 2008, which played a pivotal role in nurturing Abhimanyu's talent.
Recognising his potential and the need for professional guidance, at the tender age of 10, Abhimanyu relocated to Kolkata. This move was instrumental in shaping his cricketing career. In Kolkata, he lived under the mentorship of his coach, Nirmal Sengupta, who honed his skills and prepared him for the challenges of professional cricket.
His dedication and hard work soon bore fruit when he made his Twenty20 debut for Bengal in the 2016–17 Inter State Twenty-20 Tournament on 31 January 2017. His performances in domestic cricket, especially for Bengal, caught the attention of selectors and cricket pundits. In the 2018–19 Ranji Trophy, he emerged as the leading run-scorer for Bengal, amassing 861 runs in just six matches. Such feats not only solidified his position in the Bengal team but also paved the way for opportunities at the national level.
Abhimanyu's journey from the serene landscapes of Dehradun to the competitive cricketing fields of Kolkata is a testament to his commitment and love for the game. With each match, he continues to grow, showcasing his talent and making a mark in the annals of Indian cricket.
Abhimanyu Easwaran's ascent in domestic cricket is a story of grit, determination, and sheer talent. Representing Bengal, he quickly became a mainstay for the team, delivering consistent performances that made him stand out. His technical prowess combined with a calm and composed demeanor at the crease made him a formidable opponent for bowlers.
His debut in the Twenty20 format for Bengal during the 2016–17 Inter State Twenty-20 Tournament was just the beginning. In the subsequent years, he showcased his mettle, especially in the longer format of the game. The 2018–19 Ranji Trophy season was particularly noteworthy for Abhimanyu. He emerged as the leading run-scorer for Bengal, accumulating an impressive 861 runs in just six matches. Such feats not only solidified his position in the Bengal team but also caught the attention of national selectors.
Abhimanyu's performances in the Duleep Trophy further cemented his reputation. Representing the India Red team in the 2019–20 Duleep Trophy, he played a pivotal innings in the final, scoring a magnificent 153 runs against India Green. His ability to play long innings and build partnerships became a hallmark of his game.
While Abhimanyu's domestic performances were turning heads, the ultimate dream was to don the Indian jersey. The consistent runs and match-winning innings in domestic cricket paved the way for his inclusion in the national setup.
Though he was on the radar of the national selectors for a while, it was in January 2021 that he came close to realizing his dream. Abhimanyu was named as one of the five standby players for India's Test squad for their home series against England. His inclusion as a standby player was a testament to his hard work and the faith the selectors had in his abilities.
In May 2021, he received another nod from the selectors when he was named as one of the four standby players for India's squad for the final of the 2019–2021 ICC World Test Championship and their subsequent away series. While he awaited his chance to make his mark on the international stage, his inclusion in the squad alongside cricketing stalwarts was an experience in itself, providing him with invaluable insights and learning opportunities.
Abhimanyu Easwaran's cricketing journey is adorned with numerous achievements and impressive statistics that highlight his prowess:
Domestic Dominance: In the First-Class format, Abhimanyu has played 88 matches, scoring a whopping 6567 runs with an average of 47.24. His highest score in this format is an impressive 233. He has 22 centuries and 26 half-centuries to his name.
List A Luminary: In List A cricket, he has played 84 matches, amassing 3575 runs with an average of 45.83. His strike rate stands at 82.20, with his highest score being 149. He has hit 8 centuries and 21 fifties in this format.
T20 Talisman: While his primary strength lies in the longer formats, Abhimanyu has also showcased his adaptability in T20s. He has scored 728 runs in 27 matches with a strike rate of 121.53. His highest score in T20s is 107*.
Duleep Trophy Delight: His 153 runs in the final of the Duleep Trophy for India Red against India Green is one of his most memorable innings, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Consistent Performer: Abhimanyu's consistency is evident from his averages across formats. With averages hovering around the mid-40s in both First-Class and List A cricket, he has proven to be a reliable batter for his teams.
Bowling Prowess: While primarily known for his batting, Abhimanyu has also rolled his arm over occasionally. He has bowled 216 balls in First-Class cricket, picking up 2 wickets.
Abhimanyu Easwaran's batting style is a blend of classical technique and modern-day aggression. As a top-order batter, he possesses the essential qualities required to face the new ball and lay a solid foundation for his team.
Technical Soundness: One of the standout features of Abhimanyu's batting is his impeccable technique. His front foot drives and back foot punches are a treat to watch. He plays close to his body and is seldom found reaching out for the ball, making him less susceptible to edges.
Temperament: For a top-order batter, temperament is as crucial as technique. Abhimanyu has showcased time and again his ability to play long innings, absorb pressure, and steer his team out of tricky situations. His innings in domestic tournaments, especially in the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy, are a testament to his strong mental fortitude.
Versatility: While he excels in the longer formats of the game, Abhimanyu has also proven his adaptability in the shorter formats. His ability to switch gears and accelerate when required makes him a valuable asset in List A and T20 cricket.
Footwork: Abhimanyu's precise footwork, both against pace and spin, is one of his standout features. His nimble feet allow him to get to the pitch of the ball against spinners, and his deep crease play against pacers provides him with that extra fraction of a second to play his shots.
Concentration: Building big scores requires unwavering concentration, and Abhimanyu has this in abundance. His multiple century-plus scores in domestic cricket highlight his ability to stay focused for extended periods.
Abhimanyu Easwaran's journey in cricket, from the bylanes of Dehradun to the grand stadiums of Kolkata and beyond, is a story of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His achievements in domestic cricket have already etched his name among the prominent figures of Bengal cricket. With age on his side and a hunger for runs that seems insatiable, the future holds immense promise for this young prodigy.
While he awaits his much-deserved opportunity on the international stage, his performances in domestic cricket continue to make a compelling case for his inclusion. The cricketing fraternity and fans alike are eager to see him don the national colours and replicate his domestic success at the highest level.
In the annals of Indian cricket, many have risen through the ranks, and Abhimanyu Easwaran seems poised to be the next big thing. With a blend of talent, technique, and temperament, he is undoubtedly a star in the making.
FAQs
Who is Abhimanyu Easwaran?
Abhimanyu Easwaran is an Indian cricketer who plays as a top-order batter, primarily representing Bengal in domestic cricket.
When was Abhimanyu Easwaran born?
He was born on 6th September 1995 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
Which teams has Abhimanyu Easwaran represented in domestic cricket?
Abhimanyu has predominantly represented Bengal in domestic cricket and has also played for India Red in tournaments like the Duleep Trophy.
What is Abhimanyu Easwaran's highest score in First-Class cricket?
His highest score in First-Class cricket is 233.
Has Abhimanyu Easwaran played for the Indian national team?
As of now, Abhimanyu Easwaran has been named as a standby player for the Indian Test squad but is yet to make his international debut.
