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Ruturaj Gaikwad earned selection in India's squad for the five-match ODI series against New Zealand in November 2026 after a productive West Indies assignment. The 29-year-old featured across all three matches in that series, with Shreyas Iyer unavailable as they captained India at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. However, Gaikwad's performances during the West Indies tour have demonstrated sufficient quality to warrant continuous selection in the New Zealand series rather than rotation.
In the first ODI, the right-handed batter scored 13 not out off 19 deliveries. Gaikwad remained unbeaten on 31 off 37 balls in the second West Indies ODI, showcasing his ability to construct an innings with patience. Two days later at New Chandigarh, he scored 57 off 69 balls in the third match, proving his capacity to play substantial knocks in the middle order. These consecutive performances have established a foundation for his case to feature throughout the New Zealand tour.
3 reasons why Ruturaj Gaikwad must play all five ODIs in New Zealand
3. Positional continuity at No. 4
Gaikwad had batted consistently at No. 4 during the West Indies series, establishing familiarity with the middle-order role across all three matches. Giving him continuity in the same position across five New Zealand ODIs would allow him to develop a stronger understanding of his responsibilities in that batting slot, rather than disrupting his rhythm with intermittent selection. The quality Kiwi bowling attacks demand technical soundness and patience, qualities he has already demonstrated against West Indies. Playing all five matches would allow him to acclimatise to the pace and movement conditions in New Zealand, building confidence and consistency across the series rather than being rotated in and out of the playing XI. However, will vice-captain Shreyas Iyer sacrifice his position? That is a pertinent question.
2. Adapting to New Zealand's bowling conditions
Unlike many Indian batters who struggle in the Powerplay phase, Gaikwad has shown the ability to construct innings from the start of his innings. The Maharashtra player's approach of building partnerships and rotating strike has proven effective in recent ODI cricket. Playing all five matches in New Zealand would provide him with multiple opportunities to demonstrate this skill set against quality opposition and varying pitch conditions, strengthening his case for long-term selection in India's ODI middle order.
1. Exceptional ability to pace 50-over innings
Unlike fast-paced T20 formats where top-order batters often take a high-risk approach, Gaikwad’s main strength lies in his classical and calculated batting template. He excels at building a platform during the initial Powerplay and gradually changes gears. Gaikwad manipulates middle-overs spin effortlessly with low-risk strokeplay. The Chennai Super Kings captain possesses the ability to accelerate heavily in the final 10 overs—a trait vital for high-scoring ODI matches in New Zealand.
