India opener Ruturaj Gaikwad struck his maiden ODI century in the second ODI against South Africa in Raipur, guiding India towards a strong total on Wednesday. Gaikwad reached the landmark with a classy knock featuring 12 fours and 2 sixes, showcasing superb timing and stroke play.
With this ton, Gaikwad also climbed to the top of the List A batting averages worldwide, taking his career average to 58.02, ahead of Michael Bevan. The CSK captain bounced back brilliantly after scoring just 8 in the first ODI, eventually falling for 105 off Marco Jansen, with Virat Kohli also hitting a century in support.
Gaikwad earned his ODI opportunity following a strong India A series and impressed the team management with his consistency. Skipper KL Rahul had backed him ahead of the series, calling him a “top-class player” ready for the right opportunity.
Earlier, South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl, making three changes to their XI. India fielded an unchanged side as they aimed to seal the series after taking a 1-0 lead.
