Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ruturaj Gaikwad on Saturday (October 3) left everyone in awe as he slammed his maiden IPL century against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
Opening the innings, Ruturaj slammed his fifty off 43 balls and then went berserk. The right-hander made the mockery of RR’s bowling attack, notching up his next half-century in just 17 deliveries to complete his ton off 60 balls.
He achieved the milestone with a huge six off Mustafizur Rahman on the last delivery of the innings and took CSK to a massive 189/4 in 20 overs.
Speaking after the game, RR skipper Sanju Samson praised Gaikwad, saying they are afraid of a batsman like him.
"Unbelievable batting by Gaikwad, we're afraid of a batsman like him. Really a lot of respect to him. We aren't thinking too far ahead, one match at a time," said Samson during the post-match presentation.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s scintillating hundred, however, went in vain as the Royals chased down the target with 7 wickets in hand and 15 balls to spare.
Yashasvi Jaiswal (50 off 21 balls) and Shivam Dube (64 not out off 42 balls) starred with the bat for Rajasthan.
"We are aware of the abilities of our youngsters, that's why we get disappointed when we lose matches. Our openers finished off the game in the PP, Jaiswal was superb, hopefully, he'll make it big," said Samson.
"We have been discussing Shivam in the last 2-3 games. Mahipal did a good job in the first few games, but we thought today could be Shivam's game," he added.
With this victory, Rajasthan Royals kept their playoffs hopes alive. They will take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in their next game on Tuesday (October 5).
(With ANI inputs)
