Bangar Endorses Easwaran and Nair for Key Test Roles

Sanjay Bangar, the former Indian all-rounder and coach, has suggested Abhimanyu Easwaran and Karun Nair to reinforce India’s Test squad after Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s recent exits.

Ahead of the five-match Test series against England starting June 20, Bangar is supporting Abhimanyu Easwaran as a potential opening batsman and Karun Nair for the crucial No. 4 position.

Easwaran, a consistent performer in domestic cricket with over 7,600 runs and 27 centuries, is yet to debut in Tests but will captain the India A team in the upcoming series against England Lions.

Bangar thinks Easwaran’s steady showings make him a strong contender for the opening spot left by Rohit Sharma.

Karun Nair, known for his triple century under Kohli’s leadership, aims to return after almost nine years.

Nair’s notable recent domestic form, which includes 863 runs in the Ranji Trophy and 779 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, bolsters his case for national selection.

Bangar stated, “If prioritizing domestic talent is genuinely the intention, then he has done everything needed to regain his place in the Test squad.”

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is anticipated to reveal the complete squad and announce India’s new Test captain by May 24.

Shubman Gill is widely tipped as the leading candidate for captaincy, while Jasprit Bumrah is also considered but may be sidelined due to injury concerns.

India’s tour of England will commence the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle, making it a critical assignment for the team’s new leadership and players.

Schedule for India’s tour of England 2025: