Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Maiden ODI Ton: A Milestone in a Defeat

In a high-scoring encounter in Raipur, India’s Ruturaj Gaikwad celebrated his maiden ODI century, a magnificent 105 runs from just 83 balls. His innings, studded with powerful strokes including 12 fours and 2 sixes, was instrumental in India setting a formidable total of 358. Despite this impressive display, the match concluded with South Africa achieving a stunning joint-highest successful chase against India in ODIs, ultimately winning the game and squaring the series. This outcome unfortunately extends a peculiar trend associated with Gaikwad’s centuries: none of his top-flight centuries across T20Is and ODIs have yet led to a team victory. This includes his blistering 123 not out against Australia in a T20I, which couldn’t secure a win. The pattern also extends to his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings, where his two centuries have similarly ended in losses. As Gaikwad looks ahead, he will undoubtedly be keen to break this streak with his next significant score.