Ruturaj Gaikwad Slams Century in Duleep Trophy Semi-Final as Jaiswal, Iyer Fail

West Zone’s Ruturaj Gaikwad showcased his class in the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2025 semi-final against Central Zone by scoring a superb century under pressure. The match, being played at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence Ground-2 in Bengaluru, saw West Zone recover from early blows to post a strong total, thanks to Gaikwad’s brilliant innings.

West Zone’s decision to bat first after winning the toss didn’t start well. The team was in trouble early, losing both openers — including Yashasvi Jaiswal, who managed just 4 runs off 3 balls — with the score barely reaching double digits. Harvik Desai also fell cheaply for 1, leaving the side reeling at 10/2.

Coming in at No. 4, Ruturaj Gaikwad steadied the innings and played with remarkable composure. He first built a crucial 82-run stand with Arya Desai (39) and later added 45 runs with Shreyas Iyer, who was dismissed for 25 by Khaleel Ahmed. Gaikwad brought up his fifty confidently and converted it into a classy century.

By tea on Day 1, Gaikwad was unbeaten on 121 off 157 balls*, striking 16 boundaries and guiding West Zone to 237/5 in 58 overs. His knock marked his 8th First-Class century, taking his overall first-class tally to over 2700 runs at an average above 41.

Key Contributions and Partnerships

• 82-run partnership with Arya Desai for the 3rd wicket.
• 45-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer to keep the scoreboard ticking.
• Supported by lower-order batters Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian to take West Zone past 200.

Central Zone Bowlers Shine Early

For Central Zone, Khaleel Ahmed led the attack, taking two crucial wickets, while Harsh Dubey, Saransh Jain, and Deepak Chahar picked one each to keep West Zone in check during the morning session.

This innings comes at a crucial time for Gaikwad, who has been in excellent domestic form. After a stellar run in the Buchi Babu Tournament earlier this year, this century further strengthens his case for a place in the Indian Test team. Fans and experts believe such consistent performances could soon open the doors for his red-ball debut.

Key Stats: Ruturaj Gaikwad in First-Class Cricket

With West Zone past 200 and Gaikwad looking set for a big score, all eyes will be on whether he can convert his century into a double hundred on Day 2, putting his team in a commanding position in the semi-final.