“His form got slightly off” - Robin Uthappa reveals a concerning factor with Ruturaj Gaikwad

Robin Uthappa reveals Ruturaj Gaikwad's form slump came from technical tweaks made under selection pressure, causing timing issues that cost him ODI spot despite strong domestic numbers.

By Jack 09 Jan 2026 | Updated On 09 Jan 2026 16:18 IST in Cricket

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Former Indian keeper-batter and commentator Robin Uthappa has opened up on Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form going slightly off whenever he makes it to the Indian team. Notably, Gaikwad has been omitted from the forthcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand.

Most recently, Ruturaj smacked an exceptional century against South Africa in the three-match ODI series. Interestingly, he replaced Shreyas Iyer for the series against the Proteas, but with Iyer coming back to the squad, he had to miss out on the selection for the upcoming series against the BlackCaps.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Uthappa has revealed a major concern with Ruturaj Gaikwad, stating that the middle-order batter needs to find his form whenever he gets his opportunities in international cricket.

"I have noticed one thing with Ruturaj. At the right time, he loses his form a bit. In Indian cricket, it is important to strike when the iron is hot. His time came two to three times and his form got slightly off. So for the form to stay, to get the opportunities at the right time, it has to sit properly," Uthappa said on his YouTube channel.

Furthermore, the former cricketer also talked about the keeper-batter Sanju Samson getting back to the opening slot for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand and the ICC T20 WC 2026. Uthappa stated that the opening batter is very excited for the mega event.

"Sanju is in a strong state and a good place now. He is very excited for the World Cup. The preparation is going good and he is doing as much as needed. Many players look to prepare more, but you should only do how much will help you. Do not deplete your resources. Just because it is a World Cup, no need to change what has worked for you in terms of preparations. Stick to the same, and then you can maintain your performances," he concluded.

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