• Ruturaj Gaikwad has announced his arrival in the Duleep Trophy with a magnificent century.

  • Playing for West Zone Gaikwad smashed hundred in semi-final against Central Zone at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru.

Duleep Trophy 2025: Fans erupt as Ruturaj Gaikwad smashes magnificent century for West Zone in semifinal against Central Zone
Ruturaj Gaikwad (Image Source: X)

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Marking his triumphant return to professional cricket, Ruturaj Gaikwad has announced his arrival in the new domestic season with a magnificent century. The innings, crafted under immense pressure, came on the opening day of the Duleep Trophy semi-final, a tournament that officially kicks off the Indian domestic season.

Playing for West Zone against Central Zone at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru, the knock was not just a personal milestone but a powerful statement of intent. After a lengthy injury layoff, Gaikwad’s century is a testament to his resilience and a clear signal that he is determined to make a strong case for a national team comeback. His performance set the perfect tone for a crucial season ahead, where he will be looking to regain his top form.

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s rescue act in Duleep Trophy semi-final for West Zone against Central Zone

Gaikwad’s eighth First-Class century was a masterclass in crisis management, setting a crucial foundation for West Zone. The team’s innings got off to a woeful start, losing their first two wickets for just 10 runs, which exposed Gaikwad to the middle under immense pressure. However, the stylish right-hander showcased exceptional composure and technique to steer his team out of trouble. He first forged a vital 82-run partnership for the third wicket with Aarya Desai, a stand that not only halted the flow of wickets but also helped stabilize the innings.

Following Desai’s dismissal, Gaikwad continued his fine work, combining with Shreyas Iyer for a 45-run partnership and later with Shams Mulani for a further 42 runs. The century, which came off 131 balls with 13 fours, was a blend of solid defense and fluent strokeplay, proving his ability to handle challenging red-ball conditions. The knock effectively neutralized Central Zone’s early momentum and put West Zone in a commanding position by the end of the day’s play, underscoring Gaikwad’s role as the team’s anchor.

Also READ: BCCI responds to backlash on Duleep Trophy coverage and announces telecast arrangements for the domestic event

Ruturaj Gaikwad: First-class pedigree and a path to national comeback

This century is a significant addition to Gaikwad’s impressive First-Class record, reinforcing his credentials as a potential contender for a national team spot. With this knock, he has now completed his eighth First-Class ton, complemented by 14 half-centuries. In a career spanning 39 red-ball matches, he has now amassed more than 2,700 runs at a healthy average of over 41.

The innings is particularly noteworthy as it marks his return to professional cricket after a recent elbow injury suffered during the Indian Premier League, which ruled him out of the tournament after just five matches. Gaikwad’s last appearance for Team India was in the T20 format in July of the previous year during the tour of Zimbabwe. This domestic season, starting with a powerful performance in the Duleep Trophy, represents a critical opportunity for the 28-year-old. His priority will be to maintain fitness and demonstrate consistent form across formats, with the ultimate goal of making a compelling case for a return to the national squad and securing his much-awaited Test debut.

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