Ruturaj Gaikwad becomes the first cricketer from Pimpri-Chinchwad to be selected for Team India

Hard work, patience, and dedication never go unnoticed by selectors and team management. Ruturaj Gaikwad is a prime example of it. The 24-year-old earned his maiden call-up with the Indian team on Sri Lankan tour starting on July 13. Always earmarked as a special talent right from a young age, Gaikwad became the first-ever player from Pimpri-Chinchwad to be picked for the national side.

The success story of Gaikwad keeps getting better each day. Earlier this year, he was also handed the captaincy of the Maharashtra team in the domestic circuit. Although the elegant right-hand batter could not set the stage on fire in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he returned to form in the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he scored two fifties and formed a formidable opening partnership with Faf du Plessis at the top giving Chennai Super Kings blazing starts upfront.

The 24-year-old now will get an opportunity to showcase his skills at the national level and try to grab this chance with both hands. “I am happy to be selected to represent the country… I hope to do well at the international stage,” Ruturaj told The Indian Express.

“I was not thinking much about the team selection but, yes, it was there on the back of my mind… Now that I have got the opportunity to represent the country, I will put in my best efforts on the big stage and do well for the country.”

Dilip Vengsarkar has a few positive words for Ruturaj Gaikwad

The cricketing world saw the first glimpse of Gaikwad during last year’s IPL where he scored three back-to-back fifties. His technique and temperament were lauded by all. The youngster has honed his skills in the Dilip Vengsarkar academy.

When the former cricketer was quizzed on his selection for the team, Vengsarkar spoke about how Gaikwad should cash in on the opportunity. “Ruturaj has got a golden opportunity to prove his mettle at the international stage. Such an opportunity does not come easily and therefore, he should score tons through his consistent performance.” Vengsarkar said.

The former selector also concluded by saying that Gaikwad should convert his starts into something substantial and remain calm and composed at the crease.