In the ongoing India-Zimbabwe T20I series, Ruturaj Gaikwad has stepped into Virat Kohli’s usual No. 3 spot in the Indian batting lineup. Kohli, who retired from T20Is after leading Team India to a T20 World Cup victory as an opener, left big shoes to fill in this crucial batting position.
Gaikwad’s performance in the series has seen mixed results. After a disappointing dismissal for just seven runs in the series opener, Gaikwad rebounded with a remarkable unbeaten 77 in the second match, showcasing his potential to be a strong candidate for the No. 3 spot.
Speaking ahead of the third game in Harare, Gaikwad addressed the challenge of replacing a legend like Kohli. “It is actually a huge topic, and it isn’t the right point to think about it, compare with him or even try to fill his shoes because it is relatively very tough and hard. As I said during the IPL as well, it is difficult to fill Mahi bhai’s shoes. You want to start your own career, play your own game and that is the priority right now,” Gaikwad remarked.
Although Gaikwad predominantly plays as an opener in T20 cricket, he expressed his willingness to adapt to any role the team requires. “Wherever the team wants me to bat, I’m willing to bat there. There isn’t much difference between opening and No. 3, because you have to play against the new ball,” he added.
India managed to level the series with a commanding 100-run victory in the second game, and with the arrival of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, and Shivam Dube, who were rested for the first two matches, it remains to be seen if Gaikwad will retain his place in the third match.
India is looking to take the lead in the five-match series against Zimbabwe as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026.
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