IND vs SA 2025: 3 possible replacements for Shreyas Iyer in ODI series

2. Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad is another top candidate to replace Iyer for the South Africa series. Having played six ODIs and 20 T20Is, Gaikwad has proven his adaptability across formats. He is known for his calm temperament and elegant stroke play, and has impressed in domestic cricket, notably in the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy.

As the captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Gaikwad also brings valuable leadership experience and tactical understanding. His ability to rotate strike and accelerate when needed could provide balance to India’s batting line-up. Speaking of his Ranji batting positions, the Pune-born has slotted him to fourth position in First-Class cricket, indicating that he can be played in the middle order for the Indian team, too.