Ruturaj Gaikwad: The Rising Star of Indian Cricket
Full Name: Ruturaj Dasharath Gaikwad
Date of Birth: 31 January 1997
Birthplace: Pune, Maharashtra, India
Role: Opening Batsman
Batting Style: Right-handed
Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
Teams: Maharashtra, Chennai Super Kings (IPL), India National Cricket Team
Early Life and Background
Ruturaj Gaikwad was born on January 31, 1997, in Pune, Maharashtra, into a supportive and disciplined family. His father, Dasharath Gaikwad, worked for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), while his mother, Sawita Gaikwad, was a school teacher. Growing up in a family that valued both education and sports, Ruturaj was encouraged to follow his passion for cricket. Gaikwad's early exposure to the game came at a young age, and he soon joined the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation's Varroc Dilip Vengsarkar Academy in Thergaon, Pune, to refine his skills.
Early Cricketing Journey
Ruturaj's journey in cricket began with remarkable performances at the age of 13. His talent was evident when he played in the 2010 Cadence Trophy, scoring 63 not out off 71 balls for the Varroc Vengsarkar Academy against Mumbai's MIG Cricket Club. This performance won him the Man of the Match award and set the foundation for his career in cricket.
He made waves in 2015 during a Maharashtra Invitational tournament, where he scored a staggering 306 runs in a single match. Ruturaj’s natural ability to score quickly and consistently soon led to his debut in first-class cricket for Maharashtra in the Ranji Trophy during the 2016-17 season. He quickly became one of Maharashtra's key players, known for his calm temperament and precise technique.
Domestic Cricket Success
Gaikwad's domestic career showcases his remarkable consistency and skill. His performances in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy positioned him as one of the top players in Indian domestic cricket. In the 2016-17 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he scored 444 runs with an impressive average of 63.42, becoming the third-highest run-scorer of the tournament.
In the 2021 Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Gaikwad captained Maharashtra and excelled as a top scorer with 259 runs in five matches. His most notable domestic achievement came in the 2021-22 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored four centuries, equaling Virat Kohli’s record for the most centuries in a single tournament. Gaikwad’s consistent performances established him as one of India's most promising young batsmen.
Indian Premier League (IPL) Journey
In 2018, Ruturaj was bought by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL auction. However, it wasn't until 2021 that he truly made his mark on the league. In the 2021 IPL season, Gaikwad scored his first century, ending the tournament with 635 runs and claiming the prestigious Orange Cap for the most runs scored in a season. His maturity, shot selection, and calmness under pressure earned him the Emerging Player of the Season award.
Following the 2021 season, Gaikwad became an indispensable part of the CSK squad and was retained for the 2022 season. In March 2024, he was named CSK's captain, following MS Dhoni's resignation, making him the fourth captain in CSK history. This marked a significant step in his career, positioning him as a young leader in the IPL.
International Debut and Highlights
Ruturaj Gaikwad made his international debut for India in a T20I match against Sri Lanka in July 2021. He was later called up for various ODI and T20I series, including matches against South Africa, West Indies, and Australia. His consistent performances earned him a place in India's Test and ODI squads for their 2023 West Indies tour. He was also appointed vice-captain for the Ireland T20I series under Jasprit Bumrah.
One of his significant achievements as captain came in the 2022 Asian Games, where he led India to a gold medal in men's cricket. His calm demeanor and leadership abilities led to comparisons with MS Dhoni, who also won a major T20I tournament on his first attempt.
In 2023, Gaikwad achieved the unique feat of scoring a century against Australia in T20Is, making him the first Indian player to do so. His record-breaking 123 runs off 57 balls became the highest score by an Indian against Australia in the T20 format.
Playing Style
Ruturaj Gaikwad is known for his classical batting technique combined with the ability to score quickly. His shot selection, especially against pace and spin, demonstrates his cricketing intelligence and adaptability. Gaikwad is particularly strong on the leg side and has a flair for lofted shots and placements. His calm demeanor under pressure, excellent timing, and technique make him an ideal opener for limited-overs cricket.
Key Achievements
- Leading Run-Scorer in 2021 IPL: Scored 635 runs and won the Orange Cap.
- Emerging Player of the Season (IPL 2021): Recognized as the best young talent.
- Record-Breaking Performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy: Scored four centuries in 2021-22, matching Kohli's record.
- Captain of India’s Gold Medal-Winning Team in 2022 Asian Games.
- First Indian to Score a T20I Century Against Australia: Made 123 off 57 balls in 2023.
- Chennai Super Kings Captain (2024): Stepped up as CSK’s captain after MS Dhoni's retirement from the role.
Personal Life and Family
Ruturaj Gaikwad maintains a close bond with his family. His father, Dasharath Gaikwad, and his mother, Sawita Gaikwad, have been supportive of his career from a young age. Although deeply focused on his career, Ruturaj is known for his humble personality and dedication to cricket. He enjoys spending his free time with family and friends and is seen as a grounded individual by teammates and fans.
Conclusion
Ruturaj Gaikwad's journey from a young player in Maharashtra to the captain of Chennai Super Kings and a rising star in Indian cricket reflects his dedication, talent, and resilience. His achievements in both domestic and international cricket underscore his potential to become a mainstay in Indian cricket for years to come. As he continues to lead CSK in the IPL and represent India, Gaikwad's journey promises to inspire young cricketers and captivate fans worldwide.
