Buchi Babu Trophy 2025: In a match that said it all about coming back and class, Maharashtra’s ace batter Ruturaj Gaikwad made his comeback to competitive cricket in style, belting a scintillating century against Himachal Pradesh in the ongoing Buchi Babu Trophy.
A Return Worth the Wait
Gaikwad, who had lost the Indian Premier League to an untimely injury, was determined to get back his form before a vital domestic season. The comeback innings was not about runs alone; it was a declaration that his batting mojo is still intact despite recent failures.
Once Maharashtra decided to bat, the premature dismissal of Siddhesh Veer for 22 might have brought about pressure. But Gaikwad, in company of young and promising Arshin Kulkarni, asserted themselves with the bat. The duo took the Himachal Pradesh bowling attack for a ride, playing lovely stroke shots and displaying rock-like temperament.
Kulkarni ruled the roost with an excellent 146 off 190 deliveries, studded with sixteen boundaries and one six, while Gaikwad took his time at the other end, placing his strokes with trademark delicacy. At tea on Day 1, Maharashtra had driven themselves to 300 for two, with Gaikwad remaining unbeaten on 104* along with skipper Ankeet Bawane (11*).
Strengthening Ahead of Domestic Grind
This knock is not just a record haul for Gaikwad – it’s a confidence builder before a challenging domestic season. With 2,632 runs from 65 First-Class matches, with seven hundreds and 14 half-centuries, the right-hander has long been a key cog in Maharashtra’s red-ball line-up.
His recent innings not only enhances his confidence level but also rekindles hopes of an overseas return, especially to longer versions of the game where his temperament and technique can flourish.
Eyes on Bigger Goals
As the home season approaches, this century can be a game-changer in Gaikwad’s career. For the moment, his message is unambiguous – setbacks caused by injuries may have halted his progress momentarily, but his appetite for runs and greater glory is still as voracious as ever.
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