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[Saba Sports News] Before the first T20I against South Africa in Durban, Indian cricketer Ruturaj Gaikwad shared insights into a six-hitting contest held during their series against Australia. India, having comfortably won the series 4-1 against Matthew Wade’s team, saw players engaging in light-hearted competition.
Gaikwad highlighted how Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rinku Singh stood out as the top performers in this contest. He mentioned the team’s relaxed approach to practice before facing the Proteas, led by Aiden Markram, but expressed readiness for a similar six-hitting challenge.
Gaikwad, speaking to Star Sports, elaborated on the team’s enjoyment during practice sessions and the standout performance of Jaiswal and Singh in hitting sixes. Discussing his partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Gaikwad acknowledged that while there were areas for improvement, Jaiswal’s aggressive playing style complemented his own.
“There was a six-hitting competition between some of the players during the five-match T20I series against Australia. We didn’t have much to practice before the 1st T20I against South Africa, however, we had some before the series opener against Australia. We had fun and enjoyed hitting sixes during the practice, so obviously, I would say Rinku and Yashasvi are far ahead of all the others,” Gaikwad shared.
He described his role as more anchored, allowing Jaiswal the freedom to play aggressively. This dynamic, Gaikwad noted, makes their partnership enjoyable and effective.
“Mostly, he is the one who goes for the attacking shots from Ball 1. Yashasvi is the kind of player who doesn’t hold back. I just have to figure out a few risks, and play according to what the team requires. Definitely, when someone like Yashasvi is going hard at the other end, it’s obviously crucial for me to hold the other end and let him express the way he wants to. I enjoy batting with him,” Gaikwad added.