(AFP Photo)
Ruturaj Gaikwad, the talented Indian batsman in international cricket, acknowledges the daunting challenge of stepping into the shoes of the recently retired Virat Kohli in T20Is, particularly at the crucial number three position. Despite this immense task, the Maharashtrian cricketer remains steadfast in his commitment to contribute effectively to the team’s cause.
As the curtains close on the T20I careers of stalwarts like Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian team stands on the brink of a new era. One of the pressing questions looming over the team is who will fill the pivotal number three spot in the batting order.
“This is a big topic and I think it’s not the right point to think about it. To even compare with him (Kohli) or try to fill in his shoes is relatively very tough and very hard,” Gaikwad said on the eve of the third T20I against Zimbabwe.
“Focus on one game, focus on how you can contribute towards the team in whichever position you play and make sure you are on the winning side more often than not,” he added.
Batting at number three in the lineup, Gaikwad contributed a crucial 77 runs off 47 balls, playing a supporting role to Abhishek Sharma. Despite his usual role as an opener, he finds little difference in the responsibilities.
“No, wherever the team wants, I will bat there. There is no problem. There is not much difference between the opening and the number 3 because you have to play the new ball. So there is not much difference,” he said.
As the third game unfolds in Harare on July 10, India aims to seize the series lead. With Gaikwad and Abhishek Sharma in form and the return of Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shivam Dube, all eyes are on whether significant changes will be made to India’s starting eleven, given the surplus of top-order batters in the squad.
