There has been growing concern among fans and experts over Ruturaj Gaikwad’s omission from both the Test and T20I squads for India’s home series against Bangladesh, despite his impressive performances across formats. However, it appears that the Indian team’s chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, has a broader plan in mind for Gaikwad’s future in Test cricket.
Gaikwad’s Exclusion Raises Questions
Ruturaj Gaikwad, captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League, has earned two Test call-ups in the past—for tours of the West Indies and South Africa—but is yet to make his debut. He was also listed as a standby player for the World Test Championship final before personal reasons saw him replaced by Yashasvi Jaiswal. After a solid outing in the Duleep Trophy, where he led India C, Gaikwad’s name was expected to resurface for the Bangladesh series. His absence from both the Test and T20I squads has sparked frustration, particularly among fans on social media.
The Real Reason Behind the Decision
According to a recent report by the Times of India, Ajit Agarkar and the selection committee, in collaboration with the team management, have a clear rationale for Gaikwad’s exclusion. Their intention is to prepare him as the third opener for India’s crucial five-match Test series against Australia later this year. This role is seen as vital, given the potential for injuries in a long Test series.
“There has been considerable debate over Gaikwad’s exclusion from the T20I squad against Bangladesh, especially with regular openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill being rested,” a source revealed. “However, the selectors are focused on grooming Gaikwad for the Australia series, where a third opener will be essential. They believe Gaikwad is the best option available and want him to concentrate on red-ball cricket.”
Focus on Red-Ball Cricket
One of the key reasons behind Gaikwad’s omission from the T20I series is the selectors’ preference to keep him focused on longer formats of the game. He has been tasked with leading the Rest of India (ROI) side in the Irani Cup, which began in Lucknow this week. The tournament is seen as an important opportunity for Gaikwad to stay match-fit for Test cricket, which is in line with the management’s vision.
Potential Test Debut Against New Zealand
The report also hints that Gaikwad could potentially make his long-awaited Test debut in the upcoming home series against New Zealand. The management is reportedly eager to test him against a strong bowling attack, and this could lead to India resting Yashasvi Jaiswal for one of the matches to give Gaikwad his chance.
Agarkar’s strategic plan demonstrates the selectors’ long-term vision for Gaikwad, positioning him as a key figure in India’s future red-ball campaigns, particularly with the challenging Australia series on the horizon.
