RAIPUR: Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly advocated for Ruturaj Gaikwad to receive a longer run in the ODI setup following the opener’s maiden international hundred against South Africa on Thursday. Gaikwad struck a flawless 105 off 83 balls, showcasing superb timing, decision-making and running between the wickets during the second ODI in Raipur.
The right-hander’s opportunity arose due to injuries to Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, and he capitalised fully after impressing in domestic cricket and a standout India A tour, where he top-scored with 210 runs in three games.
Speaking on his YouTube show ‘Ash ki Baat’, Ashwin highlighted how Gaikwad has often missed out on consistency in selection despite performing well.
“There are some players who get tagged as very talented and automatically receive a long run. But Ruturaj has never had that luxury,” Ashwin said. “Whenever he performed, he rarely got an extended opportunity. Some injuries have also been unfortunate for him.”
Ashwin argued that Gaikwad’s skillset makes him an ideal contender for the No. 4 position in ODIs.
“He plays seam well. The only way to trouble him is early swing, which he won’t face as much at No. 4. Against spin, he is exceptional. He has every shot, moves well at the crease, and runs beautifully between the wickets. A player like this does not need to prove anything more for the No. 4 role.”
The former India star also noted that Gaikwad should be retained in the XI even after Shreyas Iyer returns.
“Even if Shreyas comes back, Ruturaj can still fit in. You could push him up the order, or even Virat Kohli if needed. Ruturaj has the pedigree and must be given a long run,” Ashwin added.
Ashwin hailed the 195-run stand between Virat Kohli and Gaikwad, which set a new record for the highest partnership by any India pair in ODIs against South Africa.
“Their complementary batting was brilliant. Ruturaj attacking spin and Virat’s solidity created a perfect blend. Ruturaj dominated Maharaj, and Kohli was flawless. Even though their efforts did not secure a win, the partnership was outstanding.”
India now head to Visakhapatnam for the series decider on Saturday. The Proteas chased down 359 in the first ODI thanks to an Aiden Markram masterclass.
Virat Kohli enters the final match with an outstanding record at Vizag—587 runs in seven innings at an average of 97.83, including three centuries.
