A 20-member India squad have been announced for the Sri Lanka series in July where five players have earned their maiden call-up. And, young batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad is one of them. Overwhelmed by emotion, he said that he would depend on his ability to adapt quickly while trying to make an impression on the upcoming tour. However, the Shikhar Dhawan-led side will play three ODIs and as many T20I matches between July 13 and July 25 as well.
“I am just happy. Right from the moment I got to know about it, you know a journey comes in front of your eyes that from where you started and where you wanted to reach…it’s a pretty emotional feeling,” Gaikwad told PTI. “You get the thought of people who have supported you throughout the journey, be it my parents, friends or coaches. So, obviously proud feeling for everyone and happy feeling for everyone.”
However, Ruturaj Gaikwad has an average of over 47 in the 59 List A matches and a strike rate of more than 130 in the shortest format as well. Meanwhile, he also feels that adapting to any situation in the game is his “core strength”.
ALSO READ: Indian Women’s Team Gets First Dose Of COVID-19 Vaccine
“…be it in an attacking manner or be it playing according to situation, taking some time or making sure your team crosses the line, the way I adapt to both situations, that is what I think my strength is more often,” he stated.
Meanwhile, he said that he is looking forward to reconnecting with coach Rahul Dravid, who has earlier coached India under-19 and A teams.
“The opportunities would be limited but I’m just looking forward to learn from this journey as much as I can. There are experienced players in the group and obviously once again I will get a chance to reconnect with Rahul Sir. The last India A tour happened one and half years ago, so again, there is a chance to regroup with him (Rahul Dravid) have a chat about the game, so there is lot more than just performance or scorecard. Obviously if I get opportunity, just hoping that I can give my best and wish to win a game for India. One of my biggest goals is to get a win for the Indian team or my country,” Ruturaj Gaikwad again shared.
Meanwhile, Gaikwad has already impressed everyone with his performance in the IPL where he plays for Chennai Super Kings under Mahendra Singh Dhoni and he revealed that he has learnt several things from him as well as former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis.
READ HERE: Saba Karim Reveals The Name Of Potential Candidate For India Captain
“I think with Mahi Bhai, obviously whatever he speaks it is always eye-catching and I had heard that he spoke about me in the post-match presentation and all, I don’t talk much with him, he knows that I’m a quiet and shy guy,” he said. When he (Dhoni) thinks I’m under the pump or pressure, he is first one to come and ask me that ‘are you feeling something like that and you need not worry’,” Ruturaj Gaikwad concluded.
