New inclusion in Indian ODI squad to face South Africa, captain KL Rahul confirms

RANCHI: Current Indian ODI captain KL Rahul confirmed the inclusion of Ruturaj Dashrat Gaikwad in the playing XI, replacing Shubman Gill, who was ruled out of the series due to a neck injury. He was speaking to the media ahead of the first ODI against South Africa. Ruturaj has not played ODI cricket since December 2023.

“Ruturaj is a super player. Our batting line-up is almost fixed. He has performed in every opportunity he got. We plan to give him a chance in this series,” Rahul said.

In Shreyas Iyer's absence, the number four position is vacant. Ruturaj will come in as the backup opener. Yashasvi Jaiswal is likely to open with Rohit Sharma. Rahul confirmed that he will bat at number six and will not take up the role of wicketkeeper if Pant makes it into the team. Rahul has been India's main wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs for the last two years. South Africa is led by Temba Bavuma. The match will start at 1.30 pm tomorrow in Ranchi.