THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a remarkable comeback after a five-month injury layoff, Ruturaj Gaikwad delivered a masterful performance at the Greenfield Stadium. On a pitch that was both damp and deceiving, the Maharashtra No.4 silenced any doubts about his return, crafting a chanceless 91 runs when his team desperately needed it.
He walked in amidst a crisis, with Maharashtra reeling at 0/2, and batted with an unwavering focus and quiet defiance that spoke volumes. His innings was the anchor that prevented Maharashtra’s collapse, as the visitors ended Day 1 at 179/7 after being asked to bat by Kerala.
Ruturaj Gaikwad (BCCI Photo)
Kerala’s bowlers, energized by the surface moisture, relentlessly attacked with seam, swing, and menace. However, Gaikwad met their challenge with monk-like control, demonstrating a textbook red-ball technique characterized by soft hands, precise late movement, and high elbows. This was no aggressive blitz, but a carefully constructed innings built brick by brick. Every forward press, every confident leave, and every elegantly caressed cover drive highlighted his unwavering concentration.
Adding to the resilience, the veteran Jalaj Saxena, a former Kerala player, provided stoic support, contributing a watchful 49 runs. Their crucial 122-run sixth-wicket partnership was a powerful statement, effectively neutralizing Kerala’s early dominance with a blend of steel and strategic batting.
For Gaikwad, this innings transcended mere statistics; it was a powerful affirmation of purpose. Sidelined since April due to an elbow injury while captaining the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, he had missed significant opportunities, including an India A tour and a County stint. This period of forced rest, however, allowed him to meticulously refine his red-ball game.
Kerala’s fast bowler MD Nidheesh, who had ripped through Maharashtra’s top-order, openly praised Gaikwad and Saxena. “They expertly navigated the tricky pre-lunch session,” Nidheesh stated. “In the second session, as the pitch eased, their batting became easier, but credit is due for their disciplined approach.”
Though he fell just shy of a century, Gaikwad’s 91 felt like a hundred. As the day concluded, with the light fading, his performance signaled a fresh beginning, a second wind for a player who truly understands the quiet strength of patience.
The Ranji season, only a day old, had already found its first star.
Brief Scores: Maharashtra 179/7 in 59 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 91, Jalaj Saxena 49; MD Nidheesh 4/42) vs Kerala.