Thu Sep 12 15:57:50 UTC 2024: ## CSK Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad Injured During Duleep Trophy Match, Return Uncertain
**Anantapur:** Chennai Super Kings captain and India C skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was forced to retire hurt during the Duleep Trophy match against India B in Anantapur on Thursday. Gaikwad, who scored a boundary off the first ball faced from India B pacer Mukesh Kumar, had to leave the field after getting hit on the second ball. The nature of the injury is yet to be disclosed, but the incident has raised concerns about his availability for future matches.
Gaikwad’s withdrawal prompted Madhya Pradesh’s Rajat Patidar to take his place. The incident comes as a blow to the India C team, which had just secured a thrilling victory over India D in the previous round. Gaikwad had scored a crucial 46 runs off 48 balls in that match, showcasing his ability to score quickly in the tournament.
The 27-year-old batsman has experienced a mixed run in red-ball cricket in recent months. He was initially selected for India’s tour of South Africa last December but was ruled out due to a ring finger injury. Since then, he has yet to regain his place in the Indian test team.
The Duleep Trophy has become a crucial platform for players aiming for a place in the Indian Test team. With the upcoming India-Bangladesh Test series looming, Gaikwad’s injury and subsequent recovery are closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
Meanwhile, Mayank Agarwal’s India A is currently facing Shreyas Iyer’s India D in the second Duleep Trophy match, being played at the Anantapur Cricket Ground. India D, who won the toss, opted to bowl first.
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