India, Aug. 8 -- When Abhimanyu Easwaran was overlooked for the series opener in Leeds this June against England-despite impressing in the two India A games preceding the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy-his chances of breaking into the XI looked bleak. As the series progressed, the rising chatter among experts advocating for his inclusion gradually died down. But Easwaran believed his long wait might finally end at The Oval.

A spate of injuries had suddenly hit the Indian camp. Following the draw in Manchester, the fourth Test, India had a real chance to avoid a series defeat in London, prompting the team management to explore different combinations for the playing XI.

But much to his bitter frustration, Easwaran was denied again. It left him...