Ruturaj Gaikwad, widely recognised as a natural white-ball opener, made a strong statement in his new role at No. 4 after a disappointing start in the series. Handed the responsibility in Shreyas Iyer’s absence, Gaikwad turned the narrative around with a sublime century in the second ODI against South Africa, proving his adaptability and temperament in the middle order.
While the initial outing at No. 4 didn’t go his way, Gaikwad showed remarkable clarity and calmness in the very next game. Reflecting on his shift in position, he said he never saw the move as a challenge but rather as an opportunity, backed by the team’s trust in him. “I feel it’s a privilege to have that kind of confidence from the management towards an opener who can bat at No. 4 as well. I took it that way,” Ruturaj Gaikwad said.
His 105 off just 83 balls, striking 12 fours and two sixes, formed the backbone of India’s 195-run stand with Virat Kohli, who also scored a century. Their composed yet aggressive partnership propelled India to a commanding total of 358 for 5.
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Ruturaj Gaikwad highlighted how his experience in the 50-over format helped him mirror Kohli’s rhythm, maintain strike rotation and target the right phases of the innings. “Even while opening, I have always tried to bat till the 45th over and capitalise after that,” he explained.
The 28-year-old also opened up about dealing with injuries and the spotlight that followed his captaincy change at Chennai Super Kings, where MS Dhoni returned to the helm. He admitted that focusing too much on external chatter can disturb preparation.
“It’s better if you don’t think too much about these things… you are not in the present then,” he said. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s mindset for the season has been built on consistency—whether playing club cricket, domestic tournaments, or international fixtures. “If I get an opportunity, well and good. Even if I don’t, it is still fine,” he said, emphasising his desire to stay grounded.
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Sharing the crease with Kohli was a learning experience for Gaikwad, who revealed that their discussions centred around maintaining a steady tempo of 5–10 runs per over, finding gaps, and ensuring a smooth strike rotation. With rising expectations on him—both as a leader and a batter—Gaikwad acknowledged the responsibility to deliver consistently high scores and contribute meaningfully in any role he is assigned.
