Ruturaj Gaikwad Maiden Century vs South Africa
India’s Batting Masterclass Lights Up the 2nd ODI
India delivered a dominant batting performance in the second ODI against South Africa, smashing 358/5 in a near-perfect display of controlled aggression. The innings was highlighted by Ruturaj Gaikwad’s maiden ODI century, Virat Kohli’s second consecutive ton, and a rapid late flourish from stand-in skipper KL Rahul.
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This match not only showcased India’s batting depth but also presented a glimpse of the team’s evolving combination ahead of future challenges.
Gaikwad’s Maiden Century: A Breakthrough Moment
Ruturaj Gaikwad produced the best knock of his ODI career, scoring a brilliant 105 off 83 balls. This hundred marked a significant milestone, silencing critics who questioned his adaptability in the 50-over format.
Gaikwad showed exceptional timing, rotated strike effectively, and punished loose deliveries with consistency. His confident strokeplay gave India early stability and later allowed the middle order to accelerate freely.
Kohli’s Back-to-Back Hundred Extends His Golden Run
Virat Kohli continued his sublime form with yet another masterclass, scoring 102 from 93 balls. His calmness under pressure and ability to anchor the innings once again underlined his unmatched ODI consistency.
Kohli and Gaikwad stitched together a monumental 195-run partnership, the highest third-wicket stand for India against South Africa in ODIs. Their partnership not only steadied the innings but also set the base for a massive total.
KL Rahul’s Late Charge Adds the Finishing Touch
India’s stand-in captain KL Rahul walked in at No. 5 and delivered an explosive 66 off 43 balls*, ensuring maximum momentum in the final overs. His six boundaries and two sixes lifted India beyond the 350-run mark.
Rahul has now scored consecutive fifties in the series, reinforcing his value as a flexible middle-order batter.
India’s Batting Experiments Continue
India continued to experiment with the batting order, giving opportunities to multiple players ahead of key upcoming tournaments. Washington Sundar, however, endured another tough outing with the bat, failing to convert his chance.
Key Takeaways
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Gaikwad’s century establishes him as a long-term ODI prospect.
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Kohli’s form remains India’s biggest strength in run chases and big matches.
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Rahul’s aggressive finishing shows India’s growing confidence in death overs.
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India’s total of 358/5 puts immense pressure on South Africa in the chase.
FAQs
1. Who scored the maiden ODI century in this match?
Ruturaj Gaikwad scored his maiden ODI hundred, making 105 off 83 balls.
2. How many runs did India score in the 2nd ODI?
India posted a massive 358/5 against South Africa.
3. Did Virat Kohli score another hundred?
Yes, Kohli hit 102, marking his second consecutive century of the series.
4. Who was India’s stand-in captain for the match?
KL Rahul led the team and contributed an unbeaten 66.
5. What was the highest partnership of the innings?
A 195-run stand between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli for the 3rd wicket.
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