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Indian batter Ruturaj Gaikwad produced a batting masterclass under pressure, scoring a magnificent century to guide India A to a respectable total against Sri Lanka A in the opening match of the Tri-Nation Series on Monday. The elegant right-hander struck 101 off 114 deliveries, registering his 21st List A hundred and earning a place alongside some of Indian cricket’s most celebrated names.
India A found themselves in deep trouble early in the innings after losing two wickets for just 17 runs. Walking into a difficult situation, Gaikwad displayed remarkable composure and maturity, rebuilding the innings with precision and patience. His crucial 150-run partnership with captain Tilak Varma completely transformed the contest and laid the foundation for India A’s eventual total of 277/6.
A century of great significance for Ruturaj Gaikwad
Gaikwad’s latest hundred was not just another addition to his impressive record. The milestone carried historical significance, as the 29-year-old equalled the List A century tally of former Indian captains Rahul Dravid and Gautam Gambhir. With 21 hundreds to his name, Gaikwad has now entered an elite group of Indian batters who have consistently dominated the fifty-over format.
Given his current form and several years of cricket still ahead of him, the Maharashtra batter is widely expected to move past both Dravid and Gambhir in the near future. His next major target on the list is former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan, who finished his List A career with 30 centuries.
Masterclass in difficult conditions
What made Gaikwad’s innings even more special was the challenging context in which it came. Batting on a sticky Dambulla surface against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack, the opener had to carefully assess the conditions before shifting gears.
He began cautiously, focusing on strike rotation and ensuring that India A avoided further setbacks. As his innings progressed, Gaikwad showcased his trademark elegance and timing, finding boundaries with ease while maintaining control throughout his stay at the crease. His knock included six fours and three sixes, highlighting both his technical soundness and ability to accelerate when required.
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Indian batters with the most List A centuries
- Sachin Tendulkar – 60
- Virat Kohli – 59
- Rohit Sharma – 37
- Sourav Ganguly – 31
- Shikhar Dhawan – 30
- Ruturaj Gaikwad – 21
- Gautam Gambhir – 21
- Rahul Dravid – 21
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