Duleep Trophy 2024: India C skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad retires hurt after reportedly twisting ankle

In the second-round fixture of the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2024, India-C is locking horns with India-B at the Rural Development Trust Stadium B in Ananthapur. The day started with India-B captain Abhimanyu Easwaran winning the toss and electing to field. India-C's skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, opened the innings with a promising boundary off the very first delivery. But Gaikwad's innings was cut short in the most unusual manner.

Just two balls into the match, Gaikwad was forced to retire hurt. Reports suggest he may have twisted his ankle while attempting a quick single. The sudden departure saw Rajat Patidar walking in at number three much earlier than anticipated. 

Gaikwad's battle with injuries has forced him to stay out of many games. He had previously missed out on his maiden red-ball call-up for the South Africa Tests due to a finger injury sustained during the preceding ODI series. His return to cricket saw him lead the Chennai Super Kings in the 2024 IPL season and participate in the T20I series against Zimbabwe after the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Also Read - Duleep Trophy 2024: 3 Players to Watch Out for in Round Two

Ishan Kishan added to India C's playing XI at last minute

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was a surprise addition to the India-C playing XI. Kishan, known for his aggressive batting style, was reportedly added to the squad just a day before the match and had joined the team for practice sessions.

Interestingly, the Decision Review System (DRS) is absent for this match, unlike the previous round where it was available. Though India C's skipper is back in the dugout, the team has had a good start with Patidar and Sai Sudharsan still at the crease with scores of 34 and 39, respectively with the team's total standing at 81/0 after 20 overs.