Ruturaj Gaikwad has finally silenced the critics by delivering a classy and composed century after a wave of debate over his surprising role at No.4 in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. Traditionally, an opener—both in domestic cricket and throughout much of his IPL career—Gaikwad was asked to take up the No.4 slot with Shreyas Iyer still recovering from injury.

The decision by head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management triggered plenty of backlash online, especially after Ruturaj’s quiet outing in the first ODI. But the 28-year-old answered in the most convincing way possible: with his maiden ODI hundred, showcasing remarkable acceleration in the second half of his innings.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gaikwad said he felt “privileged” to receive such trust from Gambhir and the management. He revealed that Gambhir’s message before the series was simple yet impactful—just enjoy the game and play naturally.

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“I was told I’ll bat at No.4 for this series and that I should enjoy my cricket. It’s a privilege to have that confidence shown in me as an opener asked to bat at four. Hopefully, I can finish the series well. Coach told me to enjoy the game and back my natural instincts,” Ruturaj Gaikwad said.

Calling it one of the best knocks of his career, Ruturaj admitted that batting at No.4 presents new challenges. However, his approach remains rooted in his long-held ODI philosophy: once set, bat deep.

“In ODIs, even when I used to open, my aim was to bat till the 40–45 over mark and then capitalise. I know how to manage the middle overs, rotate strike, and find boundaries. The key is getting through the first 10–15 balls and sticking to the process. Once I’m set, I always try to make it a long innings,” he explained.

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Reflecting on last year’s low returns in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Gaikwad said he entered this season determined to regain consistency across formats. “Last year, things weren’t great, and a lot was on my mind. My goal this year has been to stay consistent—whether in club cricket, white-ball or red-ball. If chances come, great; if not, still fine,” he added.

Despite Gaikwad’s ton and Virat Kohli’s 53rd ODI century, India’s total of 358 fell short, as South Africa chased it down in Raipur to win by four wickets.