In the recently-concluded 2023 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), numerous Indian cricketers showcased outstanding performances, both capped and uncapped. Among the shining stars, one player stood out with an exceptional and unforgettable IPL season. Shubman Gill, the opener for the Gujarat Titans (GT), emerged as the highest run-scorer (Orange Cap winner) and set multiple records this year.
Shubman Gill amassed an impressive total of 890 runs across 17 IPL matches for Gujarat, achieving an average of 59.33. He crossed the century mark thrice, becoming only the third batsman in IPL history to achieve this feat in a single season. The elite company of Virat Kohli (RCB) and Jos Buttler (RR) welcomed Shubman Gill to their illustrious list.
However, Wasim Akram, a revered voice in international cricket and former Pakistan pacer, expressed his belief that Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) rising star Ruturaj Gaikwad has a promising future in Indian cricket. Despite Shubman Gill’s stellar performance, Akram commended Gaikwad for his consistent form and hailed his ability to excel under pressure. Gaikwad accumulated 590 runs in 16 IPL matches for CSK, including four half-centuries.
Gaikwad’s composed innings of 26 runs off 16 balls during the rain-affected summit clash between CSK and GT in IPL 2023 helped his team secure their record-equaling fifth IPL title. Akram acknowledged Gaikwad’s physical fitness and exceptional fielding skills as additional strengths that enhance his potential as a cricketer.
In an exclusive interaction with Sportskeeda, Akram stated, “He came up with an excellent performance under pressure. The plus with him is that he is physically very fit. He is a very good fielder and is young as well. (Ruturaj) Gaikwad has a bright future when it comes to Indian cricket as well as the franchises he plays for.”
While Ruturaj Gaikwad was initially set to join the Indian squad as a Reserve Player for the upcoming India vs Australia World Test Championship (WTC) Final, reports suggest that he will be unable to travel to England due to his marriage. Consequently, Yashasvi Jaiswal, a breakout player in IPL 2023 representing the Rajasthan Royals, has replaced Gaikwad in the squad.