Ruturaj Gaikwad is set for a long-awaited return to India’s ODI setup after nearly two years, and stand-in captain KL Rahul has hinted that the elegant right-hander is firmly in contention for a spot in the playing XI for the upcoming three-match series against South Africa. With regular skipper Shubman Gill unavailable, Rahul will lead the side and believes Gaikwad has earned this opportunity through sheer consistency and impressive temperament.
Speaking ahead of the first ODI, KL Rahul praised Gaikwad’s growth and readiness. “Ruturaj Gaikwad is a phenomenal player. Our ODI top order is usually very settled, but whenever he has had limited chances, he has performed well. I’m looking forward to giving him opportunities in this series,” Rahul said during Saturday’s pre-match press conference.
Gaikwad’s comeback follows a strong run of form in domestic cricket, particularly in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy season. He also made a significant impact during the recent India A vs. South Africa A one-dayers in Rajkot, where his fluent stroke play and composure strengthened his case for national selection.
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Rahul was also asked about Rishabh Pant’s potential inclusion in the XI. While he stopped short of confirming Pant’s place, he indicated that if the wicketkeeper-batter plays, he will take the gloves.
“Rishabh is good enough to play as a specialist batter, but we’ll see tomorrow. Of course, if he is playing, he will keep wickets,” KL Rahul noted.
In the Champions Trophy and the ODI series against Australia earlier this year, KL Rahul slotted in at No. 6 due to Axar Patel’s presence in the XI. With Axar unavailable for this home series, there was speculation about a possible shift in Rahul’s batting position.
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However, the skipper firmly clarified his role. “I will be batting at No. 6; that’s where I’ve been batting,” he confirmed.
As India looks to reset after recent Test setbacks, Gaikwad’s return and Pant’s possible comeback add both depth and excitement to the squad ahead of a crucial ODI stretch.
