Former Indian Test opener Sadagopan Ramesh believes Ruturaj Gaikwad should have been part of the ODI series against New Zealand. Gaikwad was not picked for the ODI series against the Kiwis despite scoring a fine knock of 105 runs off just 83 balls in the second ODI against South Africa.
The right-hander batted out of position at number four in the ODI series against the Proteas. But he was ignored for the three-match series against the Kiwis.
“It feels like the selectors’ mindset was to recall Ruturaj Gaikwad if Shreyas Iyer was still unfit. However, my belief is that regardless of Shreyas Iyer’s fitness, Ruturaj should have also been in the squad,” said Ramesh on his YouTube Channel.
Ramesh added that Iyer was able to prove his match fitness after scoring 82 runs off just 53 balls with the help of 10 fours and three sixes against Himachal Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Mumbai.
He added, “Shreyas Iyer was going to be deemed fully fit only after his Vijay Hazare Trophy outing. However, he not only proved his fitness but also sent out a strong message that he’s completely back and fit with his brilliant 82 for Mumbai. This almost shuts the door for Ruturaj Gaikwad.”
Meanwhile, Gaikwad has been in rich form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 257 runs in five matches at an average of over 64 and a blistering strike rate of 120.65. The right-handed batter would look to carry his good form and keep knocking on the selectors’ doors.
On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer has performed consistently while batting at number four in the ODI format.
The first ODI between India and New Zealand will be played on 11th January.
