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Netizens Celebrate Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Maiden ODI Ton As The Opener Shines in Raipur
By CricShots - Dec 3, 2025 5:23 pm
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Ruturaj Gaikwad produced a memorable knock in Raipur as he reached his maiden ODI century during the second match against South Africa at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, December 3. Returning to India’s ODI setup after more than a year, Gaikwad made full use of the opportunity in what has been an important comeback series for him.

Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad scored his maiden ODI ton

His ODI recall came on the back of a superb India A tour against South Africa A, where he struck 117, an unbeaten 68, and 25. But the opener struggled to find rhythm in the first ODI in Ranchi, managing just 8 off 14 balls. With pressure building, Gaikwad needed a strong response—and he delivered it in style.

India were put into bat again after losing their 20th consecutive ODI toss. The innings got off to a mixed start. Yashasvi Jaiswal began positively but couldn’t convert his start, falling for 22. Rohit Sharma struck three crisp boundaries off Nandre Burger but edged one behind for 14, leaving India two down early.

WATCH – Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Capitalize On South Africa’s Fielding Error In Raipur ODI

Virat Kohli walked in with his trademark intensity and immediately set the tone with a stunning six off Lungi Ngidi. His calm yet busy approach kept India in the game as Gaikwad joined him at the crease. The right-hander survived a few shaky moments early on, including a top-edged six, but soon found his touch and settled into a fluent rhythm.

Gaikwad reached his fifty in 52 balls and began accelerating beautifully thereafter. His shot selection looked controlled, and his timing crisp as he built a crucial partnership with Kohli. In the 34th over, Gaikwad pulled Corbin Bosch for four to bring up his maiden ODI hundred in just 77 balls. He removed his helmet, lifted his bat, and absorbed an emotional ovation from the Raipur crowd.

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Kohli embraced him instantly, while the Indian dressing room stood applauding the milestone. Gaikwad eventually fell for an excellent 105 off 83 balls, but not before winning hearts and helping India rebuild their innings under pressure.

Fans flooded social media celebrating his first ODI ton—an innings that may well mark the start of a new chapter in his international career.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tags India vs South AfricaIndian cricketmaiden ODI tonNetizens reactionODI centuryRaipur matchRuturaj Gaikwad