3 Reasons Why Ruturaj Gaikwad Deserves a Test Call-Up

Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has yet to represent India in Test cricket, but his performances in the red-ball format continue to strengthen the argument for a maiden call-up. The 29-year-old has been one of Maharashtra's most consistent contributors in first-class cricket over the past several seasons.

His latest outing in the Ranji Trophy 2026-27 has added fresh momentum to that case. Batting against Jharkhand at MCA Stadium in Pune, Gaikwad produced an innings that touched on several qualities selectors look for in a Test-match batter.

Here are the 3 reasons why Ruturaj Gaikwad deserves a Test call-up:

3. In-form performances and Strong first-class record

At MCA Stadium, Pune, Gaikwad walked in at an unfamiliar No. 7 position during Maharashtra's Ranji Trophy 2026-27 fixture against Jharkhand and compiled 101 not out off 172 deliveries, reaching his 10th first-class century. The knock included six fours and one six, and he shared an unbeaten stand of 182 runs with Ankit Bawne, who contributed 169 to that partnership. Maharashtra eventually declared on 527 for 5.

Across his first-class career, Gaikwad has accumulated 3,466 runs from 49 matches at an average above 44, with 10 hundreds and 18 fifties. In the previous Ranji Trophy edition, he averaged 82.00, scoring 410 runs across five games. He had rejoined the Maharashtra squad directly after a stint with India A before this match.