Ruturaj Gaikwad has once again proved why he is one of India’s finest and most consistent white-ball batters in domestic cricket. The Maharashtra captain produced a sensational unbeaten 134 off 131 balls against Goa in Jaipur, a knock that lifted his team from 2/3 to 249/7 and also delivered multiple historic milestones in Indian cricket.
This innings was not just a rescue act — it was a record-breaking knock that rewrote the history books of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Gaikwad Equals Vijay Hazare Trophy Record: 15 Centuries
With this brilliant century, Ruturaj Gaikwad reached 15 Vijay Hazare Trophy hundreds, equalling the all-time record held by Maharashtra teammate Ankeet Bawane.
Most Centuries in Vijay Hazare Trophy
| Rank | Player | Centuries | Innings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ruturaj Gaikwad | 15 | 59 |
| 1 | Ankeet Bawane | 15 | 94 |
| 3 | Devdutt Padikkal | 14 | 35 |
Gaikwad achieving this in just 59 innings makes his feat even more extraordinary.
Triple Milestone: Century + 20th List A Hundred + 5000 Runs
The century against Goa turned into a triple celebration:
15th Vijay Hazare Trophy hundred
20th List A century (fastest to achieve this)
Crossed 5000 List A runs
Reaching 20 List A hundreds in only 95 innings makes Gaikwad the fastest in the world to the milestone.
His new List A average: 58.83, the highest globally among players with 50+ innings, surpassing Australian legend Michael Bevan (57.86).
Read Also: Vaibhav Suryavanshi Record List 2025–26
Gaikwad’s Recent Form in VHT 2025-26: Pure Madness
Ruturaj’s form in the tournament has been unbelievable, scoring heavily in every match:
Ruturaj Gaikwad Recent VHT Scores (2025-26)
| Date | Score |
|---|---|
| December 31 | 124 (113) |
| January 3 | 66 (52) |
| January 6 | 22 (15) |
| January 8 | 134 (131)* |
This consistency proves why he is seen as one of the best List A batters currently in the country.
A Lone Warrior: Maharashtra Collapse, Gaikwad Stands Strong
Maharashtra were in deep trouble at 2 runs for 3 wickets.
Walking in at No. 5, Gaikwad showed remarkable composure and control. With solid support from Vicky Ostwal, he added a crucial 108-run partnership for the seventh wicket.
His knock included:
- 8 fours
- 6 sixes
- Smart strike rotation
- Calm finishing under pressure
It was a captain’s innings in every sense.
ODI Snub Controversy: Experts Question BCCI’s Decision
Despite scoring a century vs South Africa before this tournament and being in the best form of his career, Ruturaj Gaikwad was not selected for India’s ODI squad against New Zealand.
This decision triggered debate across the cricketing community.
Robin Uthappa’s Reaction
Robin Uthappa expressed his disappointment, saying Gaikwad’s omission is “very hard to process” and explained how mentally draining such decisions can be for players.
He also highlighted:
- Indian cricket works in survival mode
- Players must constantly stay mentally strong
- Those not from big states like Mumbai, Delhi, or Punjab must fight harder to get chances
R Ashwin’s View
Ashwin felt Gaikwad should have been retained in the squad, especially with his exceptional ability to:
- Bat at No. 4 or 5
- Handle spin
- Finish innings
- Run well between wickets
Both experts agree: Ruturaj deserved a place.
See Also: Vijay Hazare Trophy Double Century List
Gaikwad’s Career Overview in List A Cricket
| Career Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| List A Matches | 95+ innings |
| Runs | 5000+ |
| Average | 58.83 |
| 100s | 20 |
| 50s | Multiple |
| Best VHT Performance | 15 centuries |
His numbers reflect elite consistency and world-class ability.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s innings against Goa is not just another century — it is a statement, a reply to selectors, and a reminder of his extraordinary talent.
He has equalled records, broken milestones, and shown unmatched consistency.
Whether selected or not, Gaikwad continues to let his bat do the talking.
And right now, his bat is shouting louder than ever.
