11,000 Domestic runs and counting: Abhimanyu Easwaran joins Bengal’s elite club

Abhimanyu Easwaran, a stalwart in the Indian domestic cricket circuit, recently crossed the exceptional landmark of 11,000 runs. This monumental achievement was recorded during a gripping group-stage match against Uttarakhand, where Easwaran strengthened his team's stand with a well-composed 48.

Joining the ranks of Bengal cricket legends such as Saurav Ganguly, Wriddhiman Saha, and Manoj Tiwary, Easwaran's achievement makes him only the fourth player from Bengal to reach this esteemed milestone. His journey, reflecting a saga of resilience and perseverance, has been nothing short of phenomenal despite facing various hurdles.

Rooted in Rich Heritage

Born into a family where the vibrant cultures of Tamil and Punjabi converged, Easwaran’s upbringing was diverse. But it was in the picturesque terrains of Uttarakhand where his cricketing journey took root. His undeniable talent was first spotted by Chetan Sharma during a Tsunami Relief Match when Easwaran was just 10. Recognising the potential in the young lad, Sharma's encouragement became the wind beneath Easwaran’s wings, setting him on a path that would later lead him to Bengal's cricketing arenas under the tutelage of coach Nirmalsen Gupta.

A Legacy of Records

Easwaran's cricketing narrative is peppered with commendable feats. A turning point in Easwaran’s illustrious journey was his meteoric rise during the 2018-19 Ranji season. Earning the mantle of Bengal’s highest scorer, his bat painted the season with strokes of brilliance, including four consecutive, record-breaking centuries. His achievements didn’t stop there; following this, he was entrusted with the captaincy of the Bengal team, succeeding Manoj Tiwary, further solidifying his position as a pivotal figure in Bengal’s cricketing scenario.

He not only boasts an impressive ability to anchor innings across formats but has also consistently showcased this talent in pivotal matches. His records, be it in first-class, List A, or T20s, stand as a testament to his versatility and prowess. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy saw him in stellar form, amassing over 200 runs in the last four matches, all at a striking rate that exceeded 150.

Looking ahead, the future seems bright for this 28-year-old from Bengal. Easwaran’s eyes will now be set on the IPL auctions, which are poised to take place in Dubai on 19th December 2023. With a resilient journey marked by consistent performances, the stage is set for Easwaran to elevate his cricketing tale to new heights, making his mark not only in the chronicles of Bengal cricket but in the broader canvas of the cricketing world.