Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form of batting in the Duleep Trophy has truly sent a shockwave through the cricketing domain. Playing for the West Zone against the Central Zone, Gaikwad showed that he was a true master of his craft, steering his team out of trouble. With West Zone reeling at 10/2, Gaikwad walked in to exhibit his class and skill on an indifferent wicket.
The right-handed batter’s century was a classic display of grit and determination. Having hit the hundred in 131 balls, Gaikwad smacked 13 boundaries with crispness. Crucial were his stands with Aarya Desai (82 runs) and Shreyas Iyer (45 runs) that steadied the innings of the West Zone.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Brilliance
![Gaikwad scores century [Source: PTI]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1756977881197_gaikwadcentury.jpg?type=mq)
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s century is not a domestic achievement to be dismissed as unworthy or trivial; it was an intent declaration to the selectors. Surely, his knock has enhanced his case for a Test call-up, especially with the home series against the West Indies around the corner. Gaikwad has the ability to perform under pressure and negotiate tricky conditions, making him invaluable to any side.
Gaikwad’s magnificent innings was an all-alone show, with the next best score being just 39 from Desai, something that highlights Gaikwad’s much bigger share in the West Zone innings. His 184 runs made from 206 deliveries and including 25 fours stand supreme to demonstrate his skill and patience.
The timing of Gaikwad’s century couldn’t have been better, with India’s Test series against the West Indies just coming up in October. Jaiswal and KL Rahul have been holding on to two spots at the top of the Test order, but Gaikwad’s performance might very well force selectors to take a hard look at him.
Gaikwad’s resurgence has brought back his name in conversation for potential Indian Test team selection. Having played six ODIs and 23 T20Is, Gaikwad has the credentials from the first-class perspective, at least. Primeval in classic run-scoring ability, Gaikwad has amassed 2632 runs at a healthy average of 41.97 from 38 first-class matches.
Will the selectors consider betting on Gaikwad for the forthcoming Test series? One thing the future has already ensured: Ruturaj Gaikwad has sent a very loud signal with the bat, so the forthcoming days will be enjoyable as we watch the selectors respond.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
