Ruturaj Gaikwad reveals how he hit seven sixes in an over in Vijay Hazare

Rituraj Gaikwad (Source: Twitter)

When six sixes in an over were hit for the first time in the 2007 T20 World Cup by Yuvraj Singh, the feat was marvellous and it made the world sit up and take notice. In a similar vein, Rituraj Gaikwad repeated the feat recently for Maharashtra when he was playing for them in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

The right-handed batter, who represents the Chennai franchise in the Indian T20 league, created a world record when he smashed 43 runs in one over. He also made his Indian debut in 2021 against Sri Lanka. He has proved his worth in first-class cricket and also has been with the Chennai franchise since 2018 and he has been an asset for the side since then.

Was it mind-boggling? “Yes, that’s the right word,” Rituraj said in an interaction at Chennai’s Mount Road Social, “I feel special. I was quite busy with the other matches, so I just haven’t had a chance to watch it again and relive it, but I’m thankful for all the love and appreciation that it got me. I realise I’ve done something special - which I have not dreamt of at all - and it is overwhelming.”

I had a fantastic time at Chennai - Rituraj Gaikwad

He also went on to speak about his association with the Chennai side, being in Chennai he has developed a newfound love for Podi Dosa there. He has also had some conversations with Rajinikanth who has a cult following in Chennai. He has admired the actor and developed a fond liking for him.
“Thanks to my time here, I observed the things that international players who have had a lot of success follow. There was lots of security when I played for this franchise; I would be able to perform freely and not come under pressure.”

He talked about the differential point of the Chennai franchise and also his bond with MS Dhoni. “I can proudly say that it has grown a lot. We mostly have a conversation about the match in the team bus post an Indian T20 League game. He has always been welcoming anyone from the team to his hotel room to discuss things, not just about cricket but also other issues.