Ruturaj Gaikwad Responds to ODI Snub With Record-Equalling Vijay Hazare Century

India batter Ruturaj Gaikwad delivered a powerful response to his omission from India’s ODI squad for the upcoming New Zealand series, producing a landmark century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy that placed him alongside the tournament’s all-time greats.

Representing Maharashtra in their final league-stage fixture against Goa in Jaipur, Gaikwad played a commanding and composed innings under pressure, scoring an unbeaten 134 off 131 balls. The knock not only rescued his side from a precarious position but also helped him equal the record for the most centuries in Vijay Hazare Trophy history.

Maharashtra were in deep trouble early in their innings, slumping to 2 for 3 after a dramatic top-order collapse. Walking in at number five, Gaikwad once again showcased his temperament and match awareness. He chose patience over panic, absorbing pressure while wickets continued to fall at the other end.

The turning point of the innings came through a crucial partnership with Vicky Ostwal. The duo stitched together a vital 108-run stand for the seventh wicket, dragging Maharashtra out of crisis and restoring stability. Once set, Gaikwad gradually expanded his range, finding boundaries with increasing regularity without compromising control.

His unbeaten century featured eight fours and six sixes and guided Maharashtra to a respectable total of 249 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was a classic example of Gaikwad’s ability to blend technique, composure, and acceleration when the situation demands.

The hundred was Gaikwad’s 15th in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, drawing him level with Maharashtra teammate Ankit Bawne for the most centuries in the competition’s history. What makes the feat even more remarkable is the speed at which Gaikwad reached the milestone — just 59 innings compared to Bawne’s 94.

The knock also marked another significant achievement. Gaikwad registered his 20th List A century in only 95 innings, becoming the fastest player to reach the landmark. During the course of the innings, he crossed 5,000 List A runs in record time and lifted his career average to an extraordinary 58.83 — now the highest among all batters with a minimum of 50 List A innings, overtaking Australian legend Michael Bevan.

The timing of the performance inevitably drew attention. Gaikwad had scored his maiden ODI century for India only last month, yet was omitted from the squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, beginning January 11. His exclusion came after Shreyas Iyer returned to fitness, a selection call that sparked debate among former players and analysts.

By responding with a record-equalling century under pressure, Gaikwad once again reinforced his reputation as one of India’s most consistent and reliable performers in domestic cricket. While the ODI snub may have been a setback, his bat ensured that his case for national selection remains firmly in the spotlight.