Ruturaj Gaikwad continued his composed innings in the second ODI against South Africa in Raipur, bringing up a well-earned half-century in the 24th over. The milestone came when Aiden Markram tossed one up on off, and Gaikwad worked it for a single to long-on, raising his bat with a smile as Virat Kohli congratulated him at the non-striker’s end.
Gaikwad, who walked in early after the dismissal of Rohit Sharma, has steadied India’s innings with remarkable maturity. His fifty came off 52 balls, including four boundaries and a six, showcasing a mix of patience and controlled aggression.
At the 23.5-over mark, India reached 151/2, with Gaikwad unbeaten on 50 off 52 and Kohli batting fluently on 47 off 45, striking at over 100. Their partnership — now 89 off 85 balls — has rebuilt India’s innings after an early wobble and is putting pressure back on the Proteas bowlers.
South Africa opted to bowl first, but India’s top order has counter-attacked steadily, especially against Nandre Burger and Markram, who have leaked runs. With both set batters looking in rhythm, the hosts will eye a strong platform heading into the middle overs.
