India’s cricketing landscape is marked by intense competition, and Ruturaj Gaikwad’s remarkable List A record, featuring 4,534 runs at an average of 57.39, exemplifies the kind of talent that would typically guarantee a spot in the national side. Yet, despite these exceptional numbers, Gaikwad has only played six ODIs for India, with his most recent appearance coming in 2023. The reason? A crowded top order in India’s white-ball cricket setup, with players like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul firmly established.
Gaikwad Seizes His Opportunity
An injury to Shubman Gill, India’s regular ODI skipper, has presented a rare opportunity for Gaikwad to make his mark. The 28-year-old grabbed the chance with both hands, putting in stellar performances in the unofficial ODI series against South Africa ‘A’, where he scored 117 and 68*. These performances have earned him a place in India’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa.
KL Rahul, standing in as captain in Gill’s absence, confirmed that Gaikwad would definitely get an opportunity to feature in the three-match series, though it remains unclear whether he will start in the first ODI on November 30 in Ranchi.
A Tough Fight for the ODI Spot
Despite Gaikwad’s impressive run, securing a place in the starting XI will not be straightforward. Rishabh Pant, who is also making a return to the ODI squad after a long absence due to injury, is another contender for the spot. Rahul hinted that the team is still finalizing the playing XI, with Pant likely to take the gloves if included in the side.
“Rishabh missed out due to injuries, but we know what he brings to the team. We’ll finalize the playing XI tonight, but if he plays, he will take the gloves,” said Rahul. It’s a tricky situation for Gaikwad, who will have to impress in his limited chances, while the established players around him continue to add pressure.
India’s Struggles Against Spin and the Road Ahead
India’s recent whitewash in the Test series against South Africa raised concerns about their struggles against spin bowling, particularly in home conditions. KL Rahul, speaking at a press conference, addressed the team’s troubles against spin, admitting that the batters have not been able to play it well over the last couple of seasons.
“We haven’t played spin well enough in the last couple of seasons. I really don’t know why we did it earlier and why we aren’t doing it now,” Rahul said. “I don’t have a definitive answer, but we will continue to work on it.”
While improvements in playing spin may not come overnight, Rahul remains hopeful that the team will be better prepared for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka and Australia next year. “We’ll look at what improvements we need, and hopefully, by the time the Sri Lanka and Australia series come around, we’ll be better prepared,” he added. “We’ll also reach out to seniors who played spin exceptionally well.”
With the competition for spots heating up and crucial series ahead, India’s white-ball and Test squads are set to face significant challenges. For Gaikwad, the next few matches could be pivotal in determining his future with the national team.
