Is It a Privilege to Have Such Confidence from Management? Gaikwad on Batting at No. 4
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Synopsis
In a remarkable turn of events, Ruturaj Gaikwad stepped up to bat at No. 4 for India, showcasing his potential with a stunning maiden ODI century. This article explores Gaikwad's feelings of confidence and privilege as he adapts to a new role, and his inspiring partnership with Virat Kohli.
Key Takeaways
- Ruturaj Gaikwad scored his first ODI century.
- He transitioned to No. 4 batting position comfortably.
- His innings featured 12 fours and 2 sixes.
- Formed a 195-run partnership with Virat Kohli.
- India lost the match despite strong performances.
Raipur, Dec 4 (NationPress) Indian cricketer Ruturaj Gaikwad, who recently achieved his first ODI century in the second match against South Africa, expressed that he felt extremely confident about transitioning to the No. 4 batting position, a role he had never occupied in the 50-over format. He acknowledged the trust placed in him by the team management, especially since he usually opens the innings.
Gaikwad, who has played 86 matches in List A cricket without batting below No. 3, started the series with a modest 8 from 14 balls in Ranchi but then scored a remarkable 105 off 83 balls at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium.
He described his innings as his best across all formats, featuring 12 boundaries and two sixes, with a strike rate of 126.51. He reached his half-century in 52 balls and accelerated beautifully to secure his first ODI century in just 77 balls.
"The team management informed me that I'd be batting at No. 4 this series. I consider it a privilege to earn such confidence from them given my role as an opener. I embraced it positively," Gaikwad shared during the post-match press conference.
"In the one-day format, regardless of being an opener, I always aimed to bat until the 45th over and capitalize afterward. I had a fair understanding of playing between overs 11 to 40, how to rotate the strike, and identify boundary options. Thus, I felt quite confident about navigating the innings.
"It was crucial how I approached my first 10-15 balls, but the overall process remained unchanged. I've been working diligently and maintaining good form, so I aimed to make any innings I set a significant one," he added.
Gaikwad also formed a substantial 195-run partnership for the third wicket with Virat Kohli, who scored his second century of the series and the 53rd of his ODI career.
Reflecting on his partnership with Kohli, Gaikwad stated it was a dream come true. "I've been able to watch him closely over the last week. During practice, his batting has been exceptional… the way he capitalizes during matches is impressive. In this game, I tried to stay focused on my own game without getting distracted by his performance," he explained.
Gaikwad continued, "Our discussions were straightforward. We set small targets of 5-10 runs, strategizing on how to exploit gaps, hit boundaries, and rotate the strike effectively.
"We also communicated well while running between wickets. Moments like these are what every player dreams of, and I genuinely enjoyed this partnership."
Sadly, the impressive centuries from both Kohli and Gaikwad were not enough, as a clinical performance from South Africa led them to a series-leveling four-wicket victory in Raipur.
Point of View
Ruturaj Gaikwad's ascent to the No. 4 position demonstrates the depth of talent in Indian cricket. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure speaks volumes about the team's strategy and the faith management has in its players. This incident not only highlights Gaikwad's potential but also the foresight of the management in nurturing versatile players.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ruturaj Gaikwad say about batting at No. 4?
Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed that he feels quite confident adapting to the No. 4 position and considers it a privilege to have the management's trust.
How did Gaikwad perform in the second ODI against South Africa?
In the second ODI against South Africa, Gaikwad scored his maiden ODI century, making 105 runs off 83 balls.
What was significant about his innings?
His innings included 12 fours and 2 sixes, achieving a strike rate of 126.51, and he reached his century in just 77 balls.
Who did Gaikwad partner with during his innings?
Gaikwad shared a crucial 195-run partnership with Virat Kohli, who also scored a century in this match.
What was the outcome of the match?
Despite the impressive performances from both Gaikwad and Kohli, India lost the match to South Africa by four wickets.
