Is it great to be back in blue? Ruturaj Gaikwad thinks so!
Synopsis
Ruturaj Gaikwad is thrilled to return to the national team ahead of the ODI series against South Africa. With key players injured, he is poised to make a significant impact as he dons the blue jersey again. Stay tuned as Gaikwad aims to shine in the international arena!
Key Takeaways
Ruturaj Gaikwad is excited to return to the Indian team.
Injuries to key players have opened the door for his inclusion.
Gaikwad aims to make a significant impact in the ODI series.
The series will be crucial for India's middle order.
Upcoming matches will be held in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam.
Ranchi, Nov 29 (NationPress) As the ODI series against South Africa approaches, Indian cricketer Ruturaj Gaikwad shared his excitement about rejoining the national team, stating it feels wonderful to don the blue jersey once more and he is keen to make a significant impact on the international cricket stage.
With Shubman Gill sidelined due to a neck injury and Shreyas Iyer recovering from a spleen injury, Gaikwad has secured a spot in India's ODI lineup for the upcoming three-match series. This series will be led by wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, kicking off on Sunday at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi.
“It feels great to be back in blue and I’m genuinely looking forward to playing for Team India again,” Gaikwad remarked in a video shared by BCCI on X, during team photoshoot events.
Gaikwad's last ODI appearance was on December 19, 2023, against South Africa in Gqeberha, while he last played internationally in a T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 13, 2024.
India's bowling coach Morne Morkel expressed his confidence in Gaikwad, stating, "He has been a top performer for several years, and if given this opportunity, I believe he will make the country proud." This reflects the anticipation surrounding Gaikwad's return to the ODI squad.
His return to the ODI team follows impressive performances in the recent 50-over series against South Africa A in Rajkot. Gaikwad is a contender for the number four batting position in Iyer's absence.
Although left-handed batsmen Tilak Varma and Rishabh Pant are seen as the primary options for this slot, Gaikwad's remarkable form provides the team management with additional flexibility as they consider their middle order configuration. After the series opener in Ranchi, India will face South Africa in the subsequent two matches in Raipur and Visakhapatnam.
Point of View
Ruturaj Gaikwad's return to the ODI squad is a significant development, particularly given the absence of established players due to injuries. His inclusion not only strengthens the team but also showcases the depth of talent in Indian cricket. As the series approaches, fans and analysts alike are keen to see how Gaikwad will perform and what impact he will have on the outcomes.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ruturaj Gaikwad back in the ODI squad?
Ruturaj Gaikwad is back in the ODI squad due to the injuries of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, providing him an opportunity to contribute to the team.
When was Gaikwad's last ODI match?
Ruturaj Gaikwad last played an ODI on December 19, 2023, against South Africa.
Who is leading the Indian team in the ODI series?
KL Rahul is set to lead the Indian team in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa.
