CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has long been viewed as a talented batter who, despite his promise, rarely received a consistent run in the Indian side. In the ongoing IND vs SA series, however, the 28-year-old finally seems to be getting the opportunities he has waited for. After managing just 8 runs in the opening ODI in Ranchi, Gaikwad made a strong comeback by registering only the second half-century of his ODI career.

Ruturaj Gaikwad silences critics with his blistering century

Gaikwad also batted at No.

4 in the series opener, but could manage only 8 runs. Following his failure in Ranchi, several fans and experts questioned his place in the lineup at that position. However, with his composed and timely knock in the second ODI, he responded in the best way possible, silencing all doubts around his selection.

Just like in the first match, Gaikwad walked in at No. 4 once again and this time made it count, bringing up his half-century even before Virat Kohli.

Batting on a tricky Raipur surface that tested timing and temperament, Gaikwad created a steady yet confident fifty off 52 balls.

He also stitched together a crucial 50-run partnership with Virat Kohli at a time when India were reeling at 62/2. He brought up the milestone with a punch off the back foot for four, and a single off the following delivery sealed his half-century, acknowledged with appreciation from Kohli at the other end.

What makes this knock even more meaningful is the long gap since his last ODI fifty. Before this innings, Gaikwad’s only other half-century came against Australia in September 2023, when he scored 71 in a winning effort. With 803 days separating the two fifties, this innings marks a significant moment in his return to form and confidence at the international level.