Ruturaj Gaikwad put on a breathtaking display of power and precision as he smashed an unbeaten 148 off just 74 balls, leading Maharashtra to a commanding victory over Services in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Chasing a modest target of 204 at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in Mumbai on Monday, December 23, Gaikwad single-handedly propelled his side across the finish line with an explosive batting performance.

Maharashtra's bowlers set the tone early in the match, with Pradeep Dadhe and Satyajeet Bachhav dismantling the Services batting lineup. Dadhe's 3/38 and Bachhav's 3/36 ensured Services were restricted to a manageable total. However, the day belonged to the Chennai Super Kings captain, Gaikwad, who decimated the opposition bowling attack. His innings included 14 boundaries and 11 towering sixes, leaving fans and pundits in awe of his composure and aggression at the crease.

While India is currently locked in the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, Gaikwad's knock has sparked discussions about his potential inclusion in India's squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in February-March 2025. With the selectors closely monitoring performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Gaikwad's remarkable form could strengthen his case for a spot in the national side.

The ongoing tournament serves as a crucial platform for identifying key players for India's 50-over ambitions. Alongside Gaikwad, for Jharkhand in their victory over Manipur, further intensifying the competition for limited-overs spots.

As Gaikwad continues to deliver stellar performances, his latest knock is a testament to his readiness to shine on the global stage. His ability to anchor the innings while scoring at an explosive rate has positioned him as a strong contender for India's white-ball setup. With the Champions Trophy just months away, the selectors will be keeping a close watch on his progress.