Just five days after being left out of India’s ODI squad, Ruturaj Gaikwad delivered a powerful response with the bat in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The Maharashtra captain showcased remarkable composure and class, proving once again why he is regarded as one of the most consistent performers in Indian domestic cricket.
His omission from the national side raised eyebrows, especially after his recent ODI century, but Gaikwad let his performance speak louder than any selection debate. Walking in under pressure, he anchored the innings with maturity, guiding his team through a challenging phase and setting up a competitive total.
Record-Equalling Century in Vijay Hazare Trophy
Gaikwad’s knock of 134 runs off 131 deliveries against Goa was not just another century—it was a historic one. With this innings, he equalled the record for the most centuries in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, reaching the milestone of 15 hundreds. Previously, this record was solely held by his Maharashtra teammate Ankit Bawne.
What makes Gaikwad’s achievement even more impressive is the speed at which he reached it, accomplishing the feat in just 59 innings. Batting at No. 5, he struck a fine balance between caution and aggression, finding the boundary regularly while ensuring stability for his side.
Consistency That Strengthens Selection Debate
Gaikwad’s record places him ahead of several prominent domestic batters, with only Devdutt Padikkal and Mayank Agarwal close behind on 13 centuries each. His innings helped Maharashtra post 249 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs, a total that was largely built around his contribution.
Beyond the numbers, the knock underlined his mental strength and hunger to perform despite setbacks. Performances like these continue to fuel discussions around his place in the national setup, reinforcing the idea that Gaikwad remains a strong contender for future India call-ups. His ability to respond to disappointment with record-breaking consistency highlights his temperament and long-term value in Indian cricket.
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