In pursuit of Mumbai’s formidable first-innings total of 537 on Day 3, Easwaran opened the batting and played a flawless innings, reaching his century in just 117 balls. At 29, he finds himself in close contention for a spot as India’s backup Test opener, competing with his RoI teammates Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sai Sudharsan.
While captain Gaikwad (9) fell early, Easwaran steadied the innings amid a shaky start, as Sudharsan (32) and Devdutt Padikkal (16) failed to convert their starts. This marked Easwaran’s 26th First-Class hundred, reaffirming his consistency.
Easwaran's form this season has been noteworthy, including two centuries in the Duleep Trophy and a double hundred in the Ranji Trophy earlier this year.
As the race for the Test opener’s backup slot continues, the upcoming India A tour of Australia starting October 31 will be pivotal. The player who adapts best to Australian conditions is expected to secure the coveted spot.
