Ravichandran Ashwin Advocates for Ruturaj Gaikwad's Extended Role in ODI Team

Ashwin Supports Gaikwad After Impressive ODI Performance

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], December 4: Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced his support for opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, suggesting he deserves a longer stint in the ODI lineup following his impressive century against South Africa in Raipur on Thursday.

After a series of seven innings, where he managed only one fifty-plus score—a 71 against Australia—Ruturaj seized his chance, scoring a flawless 105 off 83 balls, featuring 12 fours and two sixes. His exceptional shot selection, keen judgment, and effective running between the wickets, particularly with batting partner Virat Kohli, were highlights of his innings.

This opportunity arose for Ruturaj due to injuries sidelining skipper Shubman Gill and middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer. Having recently earned the 'Player of the Series' title for India A against South Africa A, where he amassed 210 runs in three matches, including a century and a fifty, Ruturaj capitalized on his chance at Raipur after a disappointing outing in Ranchi, where he scored just eight runs.

On his YouTube channel, 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin remarked, 'Some players are affected by external pressures, while others are recognized for their talent and are expected to be given more chances. Unfortunately, Ruturaj has not received that long run despite his performances, and injuries have also hindered him.'

'It's essential not to rush his development. Ruturaj has the potential to excel at number four. He handles seamers well, and the only way to dismiss him is if the ball swings early, which can be avoided by batting him at number four. He is exceptional against spin, quick on his feet, and possesses a full range of shots. Beyond that, he doesn't need to prove anything more to earn a spot at No. 4.'

'Even with Shreyas Iyer's return, Ruturaj can still fit into the lineup. You could consider moving Ruturaj up the order, or even Virat could take on that role, as he has done in T20s. A player of Ruturaj's caliber deserves a fair chance,' he concluded.

Ashwin also praised the remarkable 195-run partnership between Virat and Ruturaj, which set a new record for any wicket in ODIs between India and South Africa, highlighting their effective collaboration.

'Both players batted excellently, showcasing complementary skills. However, their efforts were overshadowed by South Africa's performance. Despite their contributions going unrewarded, their partnership was impressive. Maharaj was a key player for South Africa, but once Ruturaj took him on, he had no answers. The solidity of Virat Kohli combined with Ruturaj Gaikwad's ability against spin deserves recognition. Without Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj has demonstrated he can perform at a high level,' Ashwin noted.

India is set to face South Africa in the series decider in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, following South Africa's successful chase of 359 runs in Raipur, led by a brilliant century from Aiden Markram. Virat Kohli boasts an impressive record at Visakhapatnam, having scored 587 runs in seven innings at an average of 97.83, including three centuries and two fifties, with a top score of 157*.