Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has offered a pointed analysis of opener Ruturaj Gaikwad's recent exclusion from the ODI squad, emphasising the critical importance of timing and form in the fiercely competitive landscape of Indian cricket. This comes after Gaikwad, despite a brilliant century against South Africa in December, was left out of the team for the upcoming series against New Zealand.
Uthappa's 'Strike When Iron is Hot' Advice
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Uthappa observed a recurring pattern with the Maharashtra batsman. He noted that Gaikwad's form has dipped slightly at precisely the wrong moments, just as opportunities were presenting themselves. "In Indian cricket, it is important to strike when the iron is hot," Uthappa stated, highlighting the relentless competition for places.
"I have noticed one thing with Ruturaj. At the right time, he loses his form a bit," Uthappa explained. "His time came two to three times and his form got slightly off. So for the form to stay, to get the opportunities at the right time, it has to sit properly." This insight follows Gaikwad's sublime 100 in the second ODI against South Africa in Raipur on December 3, 2025, where his intelligent strike rotation and controlled aggression were widely praised.
Ashwin's Alternative View: Gaikwad vs Pant
The selection debate was further fueled by veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who suggested a different rationale for Gaikwad's omission. On his show 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin opined that the selection came down to a direct choice between Gaikwad and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant.
"Could Gaikwad have been kept in the squad? I think that was a real possibility," Ashwin said. "The only spot of contention is between Pant and Gaikwad. It was a straight decision." He clarified that Shreyas Iyer's return from injury was non-negotiable, leaving one flexible spot.
Ashwin strongly backed Gaikwad's middle-order credentials, particularly in white-ball cricket. "At four or five, I am sticking my neck out, his batting against spin and ability to run between wickets and close out an innings is phenomenal," he asserted. In contrast, he expressed doubts about Pant's current suitability for the middle order in limited-overs cricket, suggesting he is better suited to the top three.
The Long Road Ahead for Gaikwad
Ashwin also presented a sobering long-term view for the 28-year-old Gaikwad. He indicated that a secure, long run in the Indian team might only materialise after the era of modern greats concludes. "Ruturaj will get a long rope only when Rohit and Kohli decide to hang up their boots. Till then, getting a long run for him is going to be hard," Ashwin remarked.
This analysis from two seasoned cricketers underscores the complex dynamics of team selection. It highlights not just the need for consistent performance, but also the crucial element of peaking at the exact moment a vacancy arises. For Gaikwad, the task is clear: maintain scorching form and be ready to seize the next opportunity, whenever it may come.
