Match & Innings Overview:
The match was the 2nd ODI of the series between India national cricket team (IND) and South Africa national cricket team (SA), played at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Dec 3, 2025.
South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first.
India finished their innings at 358/5 in 50 overs, a big total giving them a strong platform.
🎯 Gaikwad’s Knock — The Details
Gaikwad scored 105 runs off 83 balls (12 fours, 2 sixes).
He reached his century in just 77 balls — a quick-paced innings that showed intent and control.
His strike rate for the innings was around ~126 (given 105 off 83 balls) — aggressive enough yet balanced.
Key Partnership: Gaikwad + Virat Kohli
After early dismissals of the top order (Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma), Gaikwad and Kohli stabilized and attacked.
The pair forged a 195-run partnership for the third wicket — now the highest ever for India vs South Africa in ODIs.
That stand turned the match firmly in India’s favour, putting them past the 300-run mark comfortably.
🔄 Significance of the Century for Gaikwad & Team India
This is Gaikwad’s maiden ODI century for the senior Indian side.
Given his earlier struggles, this knock is a strong “statement” — a reminder of his talent and temperament at international level.
With such a performance — quick scoring + ability to bat through the innings + big partnership — Gaikwad strengthens his case for a regular place in the ODI squad.
For India, this innings (plus the Kohli hundred) sets a challenging total and puts pressure on South Africa’s chase — giving them a huge advantage going into bowling innings.
🎬 Context — How the Innings Came Amidst Match Progress
India’s top-order lost early — both Jaiswal and Rohit were dismissed cheaply.
The momentum then shifted when Gaikwad and Kohli took over: their calm + aggression prevented any further collapse and set up the platform for a big total.
Even after their partnership was broken, contributions down the order (for example KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 66) helped India reach a massive 358/5.
This is Gaikwad’s first one-day international (ODI) century for the senior team.
His performance came despite being dropped earlier; it’s been seen as a strong comeback after earlier setbacks and limited chances.
The 195-run partnership between Gaikwad and Kohli is now the highest third-wicket stand by India vs South Africa in ODIs.
What it means going forward?
This innings could strengthen Gaikwad’s claim for a regular spot in ODIs, especially with senior players unavailable or injured.
Fans and critics are likely to view this as a turning point — cementing his place and boosting his confidence under pressure.
