Ruturaj Gaikwad has earned a recall to India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against South Africa starting Sunday in Ranchi. The 28-year-old right-hander, who captains Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, last played an ODI on December 19, 2023 in Gqeberha and most recently featured in a T20I on July 13, 2024 against Zimbabwe.
Gaikwad expressed his delight at the call-up in a BCCI video: “It’s good to be back in blue, and I’m really looking forward to again playing for Team India.” Despite the recall, a starting berth looks far from guaranteed. With Yashasvi Jaiswal expected to open alongside Rohit Sharma, Gaikwad’s chances of leading the attack at the top appear limited.
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Instead, his path to the XI is likelier through the middle order. Strong showings in three unofficial ODIs for India A against South Africa A in Rajkot have bolstered his case for a No.4 role, particularly in Shreyas Iyer’s absence. Tilak Varma and Rishabh Pant are currently in contention for that spot, but Gaikwad’s red-hot domestic form presents selectors with a tempting alternative.
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— BCCI (@BCCI) November 29, 2025
The series also brings a leadership tweak: KL Rahul will captain in Shubman Gill’s absence due to a neck injury. Rahul, India’s white-ball wicketkeeper-batter, last captained the ODI side in December 2023 and brings calm and experience to the dressing room during this transitional phase.
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For Gaikwad, the recall is a significant opportunity to convert domestic dominance into international runs. A strong showing would not only strengthen India’s middle order but could also force the management to reconsider batting combinations ahead of a packed international calendar. With high-profile tournaments looming, timely performances can fast-track his re-entry as a regular in India’s ODI plans.
Gaikwad will be eager to seize this chance and impress selectors immediately.
