My power to adapt to the situation: Ruturaj Gaikwad

Gaikwad said in an interview with PTI that adaptability is one of his strengths as a batsman. He said: “Whether it’s offensive or adapting to local conditions, take some time or make sure your team crosses the line. My way of adapting to both situations is where I think I have more advantages.”

The right-hander also expressed excitement about re-establishing contact with the great Rahul Dravid, who has coached cricket players because he is a member of the Indian A team. Gekvard said of the Lanka trip and Dravide: “Opportunities are limited, but I just look forward to learning from this trip as much as possible. There are experienced players in the group, and obviously I will have it again. Opportunity to participate in reconnecting with Sir Rahul,” he said.

“The last Indian tour took place a year and a half ago, so once again, there is a chance to regroup with him (Rahul Dravid) and talk about the game, so it’s not just performance or scorecard.”

Gaikwad played 21 first-class games and 59 A-level games, in which he scored 1,349 and 2,681 points respectively. In the T20 format, he has 1,337 runs and the hit rate is 130.43. He further added that if given the opportunity, he would do his best for a country.

“Obviously, if I have a chance, I just hope I can do my best and hope to win a game for India. One of my biggest goals is to win a victory for the Indian team or my country,” he added.

The 24-year-old also admitted that playing with Faf du Plessis and Mahendra Singh Dhoni at CSK was a big learning curve for him. Gaikwad explained: “I think with Mahi Bhai, obviously no matter what he says is always eye-catching, I heard that he talked about me in his post-match speech, all of which, I don’t talk much with him, he knows I am a quiet and shy person.”

——Cricket reporter