Sat Jan 03 07:40:00 UTC 2026: Here’s a news article summarizing the text:
Gaikwad Emerging as Potential Successor to Kohli’s ODI Number Three Spot
New Delhi: As Virat Kohli approaches the twilight of his ODI career, speculation is mounting about who will fill the crucial number three position in the Indian batting lineup. One name consistently gaining traction is Ruturaj Gaikwad.
With Kohli potentially playing his final World Cup in 2027, Indian cricket faces the daunting task of replacing a player who has defined the top order for over a decade. While the shoes are undoubtedly large to fill, Ruturaj Gaikwad is emerging as a strong candidate.
Gaikwad’s impressive domestic record speaks for itself. His ability to consistently score runs, coupled with his composure under pressure, has caught the eye of fans and selectors alike. A recent performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025, where he scored a resilient 124 after walking in at 50 for 3, exemplifies his ability to absorb pressure and build a substantial innings.
Gaikwad’s List A record is particularly noteworthy. With 4,883 runs in 92 innings, including 19 centuries and 18 half-centuries, he boasts an impressive average of 57.59. This puts him second on the all-time List A average list, narrowly behind Virat Kohli (57.67).
Furthermore, Gaikwad’s consistent performances across various tournaments in 2025 – including the Buchi Babu Tournament, Duleep Trophy, Ranji Trophy, India A games, matches for India, and the Vijay Hazare Trophy – underscores his ability to perform under diverse conditions.
While replacing a legend like Kohli is a monumental challenge, Gaikwad’s consistency, composed demeanor, and proven ability to perform under pressure make him a serious contender for India’s ODI number three role. Only time will tell if he can live up to the expectations.
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