“He Has Age on His Side”: Ganguly’s Bold Call for India’s Next No. 3
In a stirring endorsement today, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly laid out a compelling case for Abhimanyu Easwaran to stake his claim at No. 3 in India’s Test batting lineup—a deep, urgent plea rather than a mere passing comment. With Karun Nair, Shreyas Iyer, and Sai Sudharsan already ruled out, Ganguly’s backing gives the overlooked Bengal batter a golden opportunity to emerge from the domestic shadows into the international spotlight.
A Fragile No. 3 Slot Meets a Patient Player
India’s Test No. 3 position has become shaky terrain following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. During the just-concluded England series, the team shuffled between Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair with limited success—Sudharsan managed just 140 runs in six innings (avg. 23.33) with two ducks, while Nair offered slightly more at an average of 25.62 from eight innings. India TodaySpo
Against this backdrop, Ganguly—speaking to the Times of India—remarked, “He has age on his side. I still believe he will get his chance… It’s only the No. 3 slot that looked a bit fragile. Maybe Easwaran will be tried there.”
Easwaran: A Long-Term Prospect with Form and Technique
At 28, Abhimanyu Easwaran is no overnight sensation—he’s been grinding it out in the domestic circuit for years. With 7,841 runs at an average of 48.70 across 103 first-class matches, he’s not just prolific but consistent. His experience isn’t limited to local cricket; he’s been a steadfast India ‘A’ captain and even batted at No. 3 in an unofficial Test for the England Lions, scoring 11 and 80.
What’s more, head coach Gautam Gambhir has reportedly assured him of a fair chance—“a long rope”—when his time arrives, a gesture his father shared in a recent interview.
Ganguly’s Endorsement: Beyond Nostalgia to Strategy
Ganguly’s backing goes beyond sentiment. Coming from India’s former president of the BCCI and legendary opener, it underscores a strategic dimension—seeking stability in a key top-order slot ahead of a demanding home Test season. India is poised to host both the West Indies and South Africa this October, critical fixtures for the start of the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle.
Times of India reinforces this narrative, noting Ganguly’s faith in Easwaran’s solid technique, temperament, and long-term potential—traits vital for the red-ball format.
Personalization Angle: Why This Matters to You
As a fan of Indian cricket and someone who cherishes both its legacy and future, this development resonates uniquely. Imagine the late-night anticipation you feel when an unheralded talent finally receives a national call-up after years of perseverance. Easwaran’s story embodies that hope—that steady, unsung excellence can still earn its spotlight.
Perhaps you’ve followed domestic cricket closely—tracking leagues, India ‘A’ tours, and Duleep Trophy battles. Easwaran’s impending leadership for East Zone in the upcoming Duleep Trophy (starting August 28) feels like a prelude to something bigger—a stage set for him to press his claim.
Would you say Easwaran’s domestic grind makes him an ideal long-term No. 3—or does international cricket demand a flashier profile? Where does rooting for underdogs in Indian sport rank for you—next to IPL superstars, or as a purer form of fandom? This moment encapsulates that duality: the yearning for stars, and the love for the ones who earn it.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Tests
- Duleep Trophy (Aug 28): Easwaran’s leadership and form here may very well determine whether he steps into the national Test XI next.
- Home Test Season: With two major series lined up, selectors may seize a chance to resolve the No. 3 conundrum before it becomes a liability.
- Ganguly & Gambhir’s Faith: Backing from two icons—Ganguly’s call and Gambhir’s “long rope” promise—places both eyes and pressure on Easwaran to deliver.
In summary, Sourav Ganguly’s timely and bold support for Abhimanyu Easwaran to claim the No. 3 berth is more than nostalgia—it’s a calculated nod to consistency and technique in uncertain times. For fans like you, it’s a moment to root for perseverance. Watch the Duleep Trophy closely—it could be the stage where a long-time stalwart finally turns pro at the highest level.