Former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth has weighed in on the omission of Abhimanyu Easwaran from India’s latest Test squad, suggesting that off-field factors may have played a role. Easwaran, who has been among the most consistent performers in domestic cricket, has long been in the mix as India look to rebuild their batting order.

However, despite travelling frequently with the squad, he has yet to make his Test debut. According to Srikkanth, the decision to leave Easwaran out may not be entirely performance-related. Instead, he hinted that comments made by the opener’s father, Ranganathan Easwaran, might have upset the selectors and management.

“I feel bad for Abhimanyu Easwaran. I think his father made some strong statements (after England), and maybe that is why they have dropped him now,” Krishnamachari Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.

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Earlier this year, following India’s 2-2 draw in England, Ranganathan Easwaran openly criticised the selectors and coach Gautam Gambhir. He claimed his son had been promised a longer run but was overlooked in favour of players with comparatively weaker domestic records who were rewarded for their IPL performances.

Despite empathising with Easwaran,Krishnamachari Srikkanth acknowledged that Ajit Agarkar’s explanation for the decision had merit. “But Ajit Agarkar’s reasoning on not needing a reserve opener at home was fair,” he admitted.

When announcing the 15-member squad in Dubai, Agarkar strongly hinted that Easwaran and Karun Nair may no longer feature in the immediate Test plans. With India not scheduled for overseas red-ball tours in the near future, Easwaran’s long-awaited debut appears increasingly unlikely.

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Instead, the selectors are believed to be considering N Jagadeesan as a backup opener, signalling a shift in direction. For Easwaran, after years of waiting on the sidelines, this omission feels like a setback that could potentially close the door on his Test aspirations.