With India getting ready for their ODI series against South Africa, everyone’s talking about Ruturaj Gaikwad’s return to the team. After some time away from international cricket, this right-handed batter is excited to wear the India colours again. At a team photoshoot before the first match in Ranchi, Gaikwad said it feels good to be back, and he’s looking forward to contributing. He seems relaxed, confident, and ready to make the most of this chance.
With Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer out with injuries, Gaikwad’s return to the India squad is happening at just the right moment. Gill is getting over a neck problem, and Iyer is out because of a spleen injury. Because they can’t play, Gaikwad has a spot on the team led by KL Rahul for the three-game ODI series against South Africa. The first game will be at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi, and the next games will be in Raipur and Visakhapatnam. Gaikwad being on the team gives India more depth, stability, and options in the top and middle of the batting order, which is very useful as the team deals with injuries.
This return means a lot to Gaikwad. His last ODI was almost two years back, on December 19, 2023, against South Africa in Gqeberha. His most recent international match, a T20I in Harare against Zimbabwe in July 2024, feels like ages ago, especially with all the changes in India’s limited-overs team since then. Even with the long break, Gaikwad has stayed in top shape, playing well in domestic games and developmental tours. His focus and readiness during these breaks show his discipline as a pro athlete.
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, is one of Gaikwad’s supporters. Before the series began, the ex-South African bowler spoke highly of Gaikwad’s reliable performance and calm attitude. Morkel mentioned Gaikwad has been a quality player for years. Morkel also said he believes Gaikwad will do well for the country if he gets the chance, showing the team management’s confidence in Gaikwad.
Gaikwad is back in the ODI squad after some great games in the recent 50-over series against South Africa A. His smooth batting, calm attitude, and ability to play well in different situations impressed the selectors, proving he can be counted on for limited-overs matches. With Shreyas Iyer hurt and the number four spot open, Gaikwad has a good shot at making it his. Even though Tilak Varma and Rishabh Pant are also in the running, Gaikwad’s recent play keeps him a strong choice.
The Indian team’s middle-order lineup is always under the microscope, especially before big competitions, so every chance counts. Gaikwad brings skill and a sense of calm that the team values when things get tense. He can hold an innings together, keep the score moving, and speed things up when needed, which gives the batting order more flexibility. Lots of players want those few open spots, so competition is stiff, but Gaikwad’s consistent scoring in domestic games and his calm attitude give him an advantage.
Gaikwad’s attitude heading into the series is perfectly summed up by his own words: prepared and looking ahead. He’s coming back in good shape, but more importantly, he has a mature understanding of his role. As India faces South Africa in this tough three-game series, people expect him to perform well, but Gaikwad has often proven he rises to the occasion.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s ODI return, supported by team management, might be a key moment for him internationally. Fans are keen to see him grab this opportunity and help India against a tough South African team in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam.