Ruturaj Gaikwad Makes BCCI Regret After India vs Afghanistan Series Snub

Ruturaj Gaikwad (Source: AFP)

CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad produced a remarkable innings against Sri Lanka A in the opening match of the ongoing Tri-Series 2026 on June 9. 

The right-hander scored a magnificent century and stitched a crucial partnership with skipper Tilak Varma after India A lost three wickets early.

The innings came at a time when discussions around Ruturaj Gaikwad's omission from India’s ODI squad for the Afghanistan series are still fresh. 

While the BCCI selectors chose Yashasvi Jaiswal as Virat Kohli's replacement after the veteran was ruled out through injury, Gaikwad responded in the best possible manner in the IND-A vs SL-A game.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Revives India A Innings

India A's innings got off to a poor start after skipper Tilak Varma won the toss and elected to bat first. Young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who had impressed during IPL 2026, failed to make a big impact and was dismissed for just 14 runs off 12 balls. 

Prabhsimran Singh also departed cheaply, leaving India A under pressure. Things became worse when Priyansh Arya was involved in a bizarre run-out. With India A struggling, Gaikwad took responsibility. 

Also Read: Virat Kohli's Replacement Announced In India's ODI Squad Vs Afghanistan

The experienced batter showed patience early on before gradually increasing the scoring rate. He played with composure, ensuring India A did not lose any more wickets.

Ruturaj and Tilak Varma Turn the Match Around

After the early setbacks, Ruturaj Gaikwad found an ideal partner in captain Tilak Varma. The duo stitched together a partnership of 150(185), completely changing the momentum of the match. While Tilak anchored the innings brilliantly, Gaikwad rotated the strike effectively.

Their partnership frustrated the Sri Lankan bowlers and helped India A move from a dangerous position.

Gaikwad eventually reached his century in style, bringing up the milestone in 112 balls. It was a special knock as it came in his 100th List A appearance and marked his 21st century in the format.

Ruturaj Gaikwad's Strong Message To BCCI With Brilliant Ton

It is important to note that Gaikwad's century will again start the debate surrounding India's ODI squad selection for the Afghanistan series. 

Unlike Yashasvi Jaiswal, who is primarily an attacking opener, Gaikwad possesses the technical solidity required at No. 3 or No. 4. His game is built around timing, strike rotation, and handling pressure situations.

Therefore, many believed Gaikwad was the ideal replacement for Virat Kohli, given his ability to bat in the middle order and anchor the innings.

Gaikwad Departs After Century

After scoring a brilliant century, Ruturaj Gaikwad could not continue and was dismissed after scoring 101 runs off 114 balls. 

Wanuja Sahan delivered a full ball on the middle and off stump. Gaikwad tried to play a slog sweep while kneeling down, but he did not hit it far enough. The ball went high in the air toward deep mid-wicket.

Avishka Fernando moved to his right and took a good catch near the boundary rope.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya's Fitness Status Revealed For India Vs Afghanistan ODIs