Out-of-favor India batter Ruturaj Gaikwad played a commanding innings for West Zone on the opening day of the Duleep Trophy semifinal against Central Zone. The right-handed batter scored a century to anchor the team, while Indian batters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer struggled to make an impact.
Ruturaj came to the crease when West Zone collapsed at 10/2 on the first day (Thursday, September 3) of the semifinal. The batter showcased his skill and composure on a challenging pitch. He added an 82-run partnership with Aarya Desai for the third wicket. Ruturaj also added a 45-run stand with Shreyas Iyer.
Ruturaj Gaikwad Smashes Century to Save West Zone from Collapse
Ruturaj Gaikwad was the standout performer for West Zone on the opening day. While other batters struggled, Gaikwad anchored the innings, scoring his eighth first-class century off 131 balls. He remained unbeaten on 121 at the tea break, helping West Zone reach 237/5 in 58 overs.
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The right-handed batter forged crucial partnerships to steady the innings. Tanush Kotian also contributed a fifty, ensuring the team remained in a competitive position.
Gaikwad took on the Central Zone bowlers with aplomb. He fell short of a double hundred, getting stumped for 184 off Saransh Jain. His knock effectively rescued West Zone and put them on top. This performance could also strengthen his chances of returning to the national team.
2nd Consecutive Red-Ball Ton for Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad has been in impressive red-ball form. He scored his second consecutive first-class century. Gaikwad had scored a ton for Maharashtra in the Buchi Babu Trophy last month.
The young batter showcased his skills following a return from an elbow injury sustained during the IPL 2026, which had sidelined him after six matches.
Before this match, Gaikwad had amassed 2,632 runs in 38 first-class games at an average of 41.77, with a highest score of 195. The Chennai Super Kings captain last represented India in July 2024 and is yet to play Test cricket.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Strong Form Puts Him in Contention for Long-Awaited Test Debut
After recovering from his injury, Ruturaj Gaikwad was selected for the India A squad for the England tour but did not get any playing time.
The 28-year-old batter was also scheduled to join Yorkshire for their County Championship match against Surrey on July 22 at North Marine Road Ground in Scarborough, but withdrew at the last moment due to personal reasons.
With India preparing for a home Test series against the West Indies next month, Gaikwad’s consistent form could earn him a long-awaited debut in the format. He had previously received his first Test call-up in 2023 for the West Indies series.
In limited-overs cricket, Gaikwad has played six ODIs and 23 T20Is for India and led the national team to the men’s cricket gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games.
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