Ruturaj Gaikwad’s statement came for the first time after becoming the captain, said- the goal of listening to the national anthem on the podium along with winning the gold medal
Rossiu. Excited about captaining the Indian team at the Asian Games, Ruturaj Gaikwad says his aim will be to ensure that the team stands on the podium with the gold medal as India’s national anthem plays. With the Asian Games being held alongside the World Cup, the Board of Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a second tier team for the continental event. The ODI World Cup begins on October 5 while men’s cricket in the Asia Cup, played in the T20 format, will be held from September 28 to October 8.
In a video released by the BCCI, Gaikwad said, “Our goal is to win the gold medal and stand on the podium listening to the national anthem.” The 26-year-old player is currently part of the Test team on the West Indies tour. He has been a part of India’s limited overs team and has played one ODI and nine T20Is. With the Indian team going through a transition phase, this will be a great opportunity for the ‘run-machine’ from Maharashtra to showcase his potential.
He said, “I think this opportunity is something special and we will play such cricket that the people of the country will be proud of.” It would be really exciting to win a medal for him.” The Chennai Super Kings batsman said, “It is something that we have always grown up watching on TV. We have seen athletes winning for the country. Now we have got such an opportunity. It will be really special.” He said, “It is indeed a proud feeling to play for India, and to lead the team in such a big event is a big achievement for me personally and for all the team members present with me. Cricket was last played at the Asian Games in 2014 when India did not participate.
