Indian cricket fans experienced a breathtaking game as the second ODI between India and South Africa was a real nail-biter. The loss hurt badly, but on the contrary, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s first ODI century was the only highlight of the day and was enough to cheer up everyone.
The captain of CSK, batting at number four, had a great partnership with Virat Kohli and then unbelievable scored a century. After that innings, he also conveyed the special message from the head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Gambhir’s message boosts Gaikwad’s spirits
Ruturaj Gaikwad had to wait for a long time before he could make his way into the Indian team despite his consistent performances at the domestic level. Gaikwad got a call-up for the series against South Africa after Shreyas Iyer was ruled out due to injury. He was, however, pushed back from his usual opening slot and sent in at No. 4 in Ranchi; he couldn’t make the impact he desired.
However, in the second ODI, Gaikwad showed that he could perform well no matter what the batting order was. By coming to bat at No. 4, he created a partnership of 195 runs with Virat Kohli and scored his first ODI album. His brilliant 105 left the audience amazed, and after the game, he spoke about a particularly moving message from Gautam Gambhir.
“I was informed that I would be batting at No. 4 for this series and was encouraged to enjoy my game. I think it is a privilege to have that type of confidence from management to an opener who can bat at four. I hope to do well in the last match too. The coach told me to enjoy and play my natural game,” he declared.
Gaikwad’s long preparation made for his wonderful innings
In limited-overs matches, the number four position is one of the most critical batting spots for a team. The public recognized his genius, but his performance over the years of “hard work in silence” was the foundation of his doubt-free self-belief. He opened up about his staying power even during a difficult phase of domestic cricket after the match.
“Even in ODI, while I was still opening, I wanted to stay till 40-45 and then take profit. I know how to play 11-40 overs and rotate the strike, find my boundary options. It was just about batting the first 10-15 balls right and then taking the process. Whenever I’m set, I try to make it long,” Gaikwad said.
“I could not do much in the last Vijay Hazare Trophy and there were lots of things in my mind. I thought for this year, my thought was to stay consistent with my runs, be it in club cricket, white-ball, or red-ball cricket. If I get a chance, well and good otherwise, still well and good,” he added.
Although India scored a whopping 358 runs, Team India suffered a very disappointing loss. A four-wicket victory for South Africa not only tied the series at 1-1 but also brought the fierce competition back to life. The decider is set for December 6, and both teams are ready to fight without restrictions for the series title.