Ganguly Backs Easwaran for India’s No. 3 Test Spot
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly believes Bengal batter Abhimanyu Easwaran should challenge for the No. 3 position in India’s Test team. With the top order undergoing transition after the retirements of senior players, Ganguly said Easwaran’s consistent domestic record and age advantage make him a strong contender.
Despite being named in multiple India Test squads—including tours to Bangladesh, Australia, and England since 2022—Easwaran has yet to make his international debut. During the recent England series, Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair were alternated at No. 3, but neither secured the spot, making it the most uncertain position in the lineup.
“He has age on his side. I still believe he will get his chance,” Ganguly said at a recent event, noting that while players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja have been scoring, the No. 3 slot remains fragile. Easwaran’s strong performances in first-class cricket—over 7,800 runs at an average near 49 across more than 100 matches—along with leadership experience for India A and in domestic tournaments, reinforce his case.
Easwaran’s father also shared that head coach Gautam Gambhir assured his son of a fair opportunity when he earns it, promising a sustained chance rather than a brief trial. With upcoming home Tests against West Indies and South Africa, Easwaran may yet get his long-awaited debut.
