With Team India captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer injured, Ruturaj Gaikwad was suddenly included in the final squad. In the Ranchi ODI, he scored only 8 runs from 14 balls. He looked comfortable while in the crease but was dismissed due to a brilliant catch by Dewald Brevis.
Ruturaj performed strongly in the second ODI at Raipur. He made 105 runs from 83 balls, including 12 fours and 2 sixes. He showed good shot selection, running between the wickets, and partnership with Virat Kohli. Because of this performance, ex-Team India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has suggested that Ruturaj should continue to be in the team even if Shreyas Iyer recovers from injury.
"Some cricketers reach recognition pretty quickly and stay within the team for a long period. However, Ruturaj, despite doing well, doesn't stay in the team. Injuries sometimes affect his place in the squad," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin further added that Ruturaj fits well at the number four position. He can play seamers effectively and is hard to dismiss unless the ball swings. He is also very strong against spin bowling. Ruturaj runs quickly between the wickets and has all the necessary cricketing shots. He feels that there is little more for Ruturaj to prove in order to claim the number four spot.
Even if Shreyas Iyer comes back, Ashwin feels Ruturaj should be a part of the team. During the Raipur ODI, Ruturaj and Virat Kohli stitched a 195-run partnership and played the spin bowling quite well. The partnership also showcased good communication and camaraderie.
Tags Cloud
