Chennai: Ruturaj Gaikwad announced his return to form in emphatic style at the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament, scoring a commanding century that signals his intent to reclaim a spot in the Indian cricket team. After months of inconsistent performances and missed opportunities, the Maharashtra batsman reminded selectors and fans alike of his class and resilience.
Gaikwad’s season had begun on a disappointing note. He struggled in Maharashtra’s opening match against Chhattisgarh and missed the second match against the TNCA President’s XI. Yet, in the third-round clash against Himachal Pradesh, he turned the tide. Battling through 144 balls, Gaikwad amassed 133 runs, laced with 10 boundaries and four towering sixes, including a memorable over where he struck four sixes. His 122-ball century not only revived his confidence but also sent a strong message about his readiness for higher challenges.
The performance comes after a turbulent 2025 season. Injuries had sidelined Gaikwad from several IPL matches, and although he was selected for the India A squad against England A, he did not get an opportunity to play. A stint with Yorkshire in the County Championship had also been cut short due to personal reasons, further interrupting his momentum.
Despite these setbacks, Gaikwad appears determined to use domestic cricket as a platform to re-enter the national fold. His century at Buchi Babu, a blend of patience and aggression, demonstrates that the young batsman is ready to turn setbacks into comebacks. With selectors keenly observing domestic performances, this innings could well mark the beginning of Gaikwad’s resurgence in Indian cricket.