IND vs SA 2025: 'He deserves a long run' - R Ashwin backs Ruturaj Gaikwad for 2027 ODI World Cup

Former Indian cricketer R Ashwin feels Ruturaj Gaikwad deserves a long rope at No. 4 in India's 50-over setup. Ruturaj registered his maiden ODI ton in the second ODI of the ongoing series against South Africa.

Ashwin, who has played along with Ruturaj at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), listed out the likeable attribute that make Ruturaj an ideal candidate for the role in the Indian setup.

“Yes, Ruturaj is an opening batter. Some people argue he shouldn’t bat at No. 4. But there are possibilities for Ruturaj at No. 4 in ODIs. He handles seamers well. He has a slight weakness against the moving ball, and he won’t need to face that much if he’s batting at No. 4. He's a terrific player of spin and runs hard between the wickets. He has all the shots in the book. There is nothing more he needs to prove to bat at No. 4," stated Ashwin in a video on his YouTube channel.

Ashwin also opined that Ruturaj has not let the team feel the absence of Shreyas Iyer, who is still recovering from a severe spleen laceration he sustained during the ODI series against Australia.

“Tomorrow, even if Shreyas Iyer returns, you can still accommodate Ruturaj Gaikwad. I don’t know exactly how, but I’ve thought of many innovative ideas. Do you push Ruturaj up the order? I’m not sure. For a player of such pedigree, he deserves a long run. He has made up for Shreyas Iyer’s absence in double gear,” he added.

Ruturaj top-scored for India in Raipur with an 83-ball 105, which comprised 12 fours and two sixes. He was the aggressor in the 195-run stand for the third wicket with Virat Kohli(102 off 93).

Ruturaj Gaikwad opens up on adapting to No. 4 position

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Ruturaj Gaikwad opens up on adapting to No. 4 position

Despite Ruturaj's effort, the Men in Blue failed to defend their 359-run target and lost by four wickets and as many deliveries to spare. The series will now be decided in what promises to be another high-scoring clash at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on December 6.