From 22 off 22 to 57-ball 123*: Ruturaj Gaikwad becomes first Indian to smash T20I century against Australia

In a dazzling display of power-hitting mastery, Team India’s opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad etched his name in the record books as he became the first Indian cricketer to smash a T20 International century against Australia.

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s batting lights up Guwahati

Gaikwad’s knock, which evolved from a measured start to a blistering 123 not out off 57 balls, left cricket enthusiasts awestruck and propelled India to 223/3 in the third T20I of the five-match series at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.

The journey of Gaikwad’s innings was nothing short of extraordinary. Starting cautiously with 22 runs off 22 balls, he steadily built his innings, showcasing a blend of classical strokes and audacious shots. The turning point came when Gaikwad shifted gears, unleashing a relentless assault on the Australian bowlers. His batting display was characterized by impeccable timing, precision, and a wide array of strokes that left the opposition bowlers grappling for answers.

The 26-year-old’s maiden T20I century, achieved in just 52 deliveries, marked a significant milestone not only for Gaikwad personally but also for Indian cricket against a formidable Australian side. The innings featured an array of 13 fours and 7 towering sixes, with Gaikwad’s strike rate soaring as he approached the coveted century mark. His ability to accelerate the run rate without compromising on shot selection showcased a maturity beyond his years, earning accolades from fans and cricket pundits alike.

Ruturaj Gaikwad powers India to 222/3: https://t.co/RNGsW2XX7V#cricket #INDvsAUS #T20I #RuturajGaikwad #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/N3rczx2fL4

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 28, 2023

Petition to call 28 November Ruturaj Gaikwad Day 🙌 pic.twitter.com/tax7oyi6Ru

— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 28, 2023

Ruturaj with a phenomenal 💯 #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/2MM0qzNLTY

— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) November 28, 2023

Nov 28 – T̶u̶e̶s̶d̶a̶y̶ Rutu’sDay! 💯🔥

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) November 28, 2023

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Back to back 50+ scores for Ruturaj

As described above, Gaikwad smashed his maiden T20I century in Guwahati. His highest score in this format before that occurred in the recent match, where he hammered a 43-ball 58, contributing to India’s victory in the second T20I held at Thiruvananthapuram.

Additionally, Gaikwad displayed his batting prowess with a 58-run knock against Ireland earlier this year in Dublin. His sole other instance of surpassing fifty runs in T20Is took place in 2022 when he notched up 57 runs against South Africa.

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