Ruturaj Gaikwad had a fantastic beginning to his IPL 2023 journey, scoring an impressive 92 runs off 50 balls in the first match against Gujarat Titans held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. During his innings, he hit nine sixes and four fours, dismantling the opposition’s bowling attack.
CSK management would be thrilled to witness the young player’s excellent performance early in the tournament. Gaikwad has become a crucial member of the team over the last few years, having previously won the orange cap in 2021. Let’s explore three reasons why he can clinch the orange cap again in IPL 2023.
1. Form
Apart from his impressive performance in the ongoing IPL match, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s overall form leading up to the tournament has been exceptional. He emerged as the second-highest run-scorer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, accumulating 660 runs in just five games. He smashed centuries in all three knockout games he played, including a double century in the quarter-finals versus Uttar Pradesh, earning him the Player of the Series award for his outstanding batting display.
2. Opener
As an opener for CSK alongside Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad has an excellent chance of winning the orange cap since openers get to face the most deliveries in an innings. With plenty of opportunities to showcase his skills, Gaikwad has a high probability of clinching the coveted prize.
3. Experience
Ruturaj Gaikwad, with over 90 T20 matches to his name, is an experienced player at the age of 26. He boasts an impressive T20 record, with an average of 35.01 and a strike rate of 133.96. This being his fourth year in the IPL, having played 37 matches already, he will draw on his experience from previous years to adapt to the challenges of this year’s edition of the tournament.