WATCH: Ruturaj Gaikwad surprises fans with a wicket for Maharashtra in Buchi Babu Trophy 2025

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In a surprising twist at the 2025 Buchi Babu Trophy, Maharashtra skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad showcased an unexpected side to his game, claiming a rare wicket against Chhattisgarh on Day 1 of their clash. Known primarily for his stylish batting, Gaikwad’s late bowling intervention provided a memorable highlight and injected momentum into Maharashtra’s campaign.

The breakthrough came in the final stages of play, with Chhattisgarh inching toward the close of their innings. Taking the ball for the 89th over, Gaikwad—an occasional off-break bowler—conceded a six early in the spell but quickly found his rhythm. On the very next delivery, he dismissed No. 11 batter Sourabh Majumdar with a sharp caught-and-bowled effort. The wicket, Gaikwad’s first in this format, ended Chhattisgarh’s innings at 252 in 89.3 overs, sparking visible joy in the Maharashtra camp.

While it may not count as a major bowling feat, the dismissal was more than a statistical oddity. For Gaikwad, it was a personal milestone and a testament to his composure under pressure in an unfamiliar role. The timely breakthrough gave Maharashtra the psychological edge heading into Day 2, ensuring their batting innings would begin with confidence and momentum.

The rarity of the moment—an established top-order batter taking a wicket—quickly became a talking point among fans and pundits, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the opening round of the tournament.

Ruturaj Gaikwad closed the day, bowling an over and taking a wicket off to wrap up today's Chhattisgarh’s innings in the Day 1 of the Buchi Babu Multi-Day Tournament🏏

Video Courtesy: TNCA#MCA #MCAcricket #Mahacricket #TeamMaha #cricketmaharashtra

— Maharashtra Cricket Association (@MahaCricket) August 18, 2025

Gaikwad’s appearance in the Buchi Babu Trophy also marked his much-anticipated comeback after an elbow injury that had cut short his 2025 IPL season. The setback had even prompted MS Dhoni’s brief return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captaincy. His smooth return to competitive cricket, capped by this unexpected bowling success, will reassure both fans and selectors about his fitness and readiness for the challenges ahead.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Rajasthan Royals eye Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad in exchange trade for Sanju Samson [Reports]

Maharashtra’s strong opening day was also bolstered by Prithvi Shaw’s sharp fielding display, which saw him pouch three crucial catches. The stage is now set for Gaikwad and Shaw to open the innings together on Day 2—a partnership that promises fireworks at the top of the order.

Prithvi Shaw displayed excellent fielding awareness, completing key catches on Day 1 of the Buchi Babu Multi-Day Tournament🏏

Video Courtesy: TNCA#MCA #MCAcricket #Mahacricket #TeamMaha #cricketmaharashtra

— Maharashtra Cricket Association (@MahaCricket) August 18, 2025

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