How Ruturaj Gaikwad Was Key to India’s Massive Total: Exploring the Impact

Did Ruturaj Gaikwad’s half-century in the India v Australia game contribute to the team’s success, or was it a hindrance? This is what Ben Gardner looks into.

Since Gaikwad was run out without facing in the first T20I, he made sure to provide a substantial performance in the second T20I against Australia. With competition being fierce and T20 cricket evolving, hitting a milestone is not the sole benchmark of a good innings anymore.

Being the vice-captain and having led India at the Asian Games, Gaikwad’s rising stature is evident. However, factors such as India’s limited resources must be considered.

India’s total score of 235-4 triggered mixed reactions to Gaikwad’s 43-ball 58, with a strike rate of 134.88. Whether Gaikwad could have contributed more or India’s score was because of Gaikwad’s innings is a topic for debate.

Examining his performance from various angles, Gaikwad’s innings showed that he played the role of a slow scorer to allow his partners to be more aggressive. With only 35% of the balls faced, Gaikwad strategically balanced the strike.

Gaikwad’s innings primarily facilitated his teammates’ aggressive play while providing security in case they fell. His role played a significant part in India’s strategy, even if it didn’t stand out in the limelight.