Ruturaj Gaikwad has signed a short-term deal with Yorkshire County Cricket Club (Yorkshire CCC) to participate in the ongoing County Championship and the upcoming Royal London One-Day Cup. The move comes shortly after a difficult IPL season with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where Gaikwad struggled to find form.
Fresh Start After IPL Setback
After averaging under 25 in IPL 2025 and facing scrutiny over his strike rate, Gaikwad opted for a reset through red-ball and List A cricket in England. By joining Yorkshire, he aims to rediscover rhythm in a less pressurized environment and sharpen his technique ahead of India’s upcoming domestic season.
Gaikwad, who has represented India across formats, last played a Test match in early 2024. His county stint is seen as both a development opportunity and a statement of intent to return to the national radar.
Yorkshire Welcomes a Proven Talent
Yorkshire CCC confirmed the signing in an official statement, calling Gaikwad “a technically sound top-order batter with the maturity and hunger to make a strong impact.” The club expects him to be available for the remainder of the County Championship and the full 50-over competition.
Director of Cricket Darren Gough said, “Ruturaj brings international experience, calmness at the top, and a solid temperament that suits English conditions. He’s a valuable addition to our squad.”
Focus on Adaptation and Consistency
Gaikwad expressed excitement about the opportunity, saying, “Playing county cricket has always been on my list. I’m looking forward to learning, adapting, and enjoying the grind of red-ball cricket in England. It’s a great chance to grow as a cricketer.”
His experience in similar conditions during India A tours and previous UK stints is expected to help him adjust quickly. Yorkshire is currently in the middle of the Division Two table and hopes that Gaikwad’s arrival will boost their batting consistency.
National Selectors Watching Closely
The Indian selectors are likely to monitor Gaikwad’s performances in England, especially with several top-order spots still under discussion in both Tests and ODIs. A productive stint could improve his chances of earning a recall, particularly with India’s upcoming overseas tours.
