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Ruturaj Gaikwad Withdraws from Yorkshire County Deal Due to Personal Reasons
Unexpected Setback for Yorkshire Ahead of Crucial Fixtures
In a significant blow to their 2025 domestic season campaign, Yorkshire County Cricket Club has confirmed that Indian batter Ruturaj Gaikwad has pulled out of his overseas stint citing personal reasons. Gaikwad, who was slated to join the squad for the upcoming match against defending champions Surrey, will no longer feature in the County Championship or the One-Day Cup.
This development comes at a critical juncture for Yorkshire, who are struggling at the 8th position in the County Championship 2025 table and were counting on the Indian opener to boost their chances.
Coach McGrath Confirms Gaikwad’s Withdrawal
Yorkshire head coach Anthony McGrath broke the news publicly, expressing disappointment at the sudden withdrawal of the 28-year-old Indian batter.
“Unfortunately, Gaikwad’s not coming now for personal reasons,” McGrath said. “We’re not going to have him for Scarborough or for the rest of the season. That’s disappointing for all of us.”
He added that while the club respects Gaikwad’s privacy and has no details to disclose regarding the reason, they are urgently searching for a replacement.
“We’ve literally just found out. We’re working behind the scenes, but the match is only two or three days away. The time crunch is making it difficult.”
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Missed Opportunity for Ruturaj Gaikwad
Recovery From Injury and National Team Exclusion
Gaikwad had not played competitive cricket for over three months, following an elbow injury he sustained during IPL 2025. Though he later recovered and was named in the India A squad for the red-ball series in England, he failed to make the playing XI in any of the matches. His county debut with Yorkshire was being seen as a significant opportunity for him to regain form and rhythm ahead of future India selections.
With this sudden withdrawal, Gaikwad’s much-anticipated county cricket debut now remains uncertain.
Yorkshire Face Uncertainty Over Replacement
With the upcoming fixture against Surrey just days away, Yorkshire’s coaching staff and selectors are under pressure to find an overseas replacement.
The lack of time and availability of players during the peak season make this task particularly challenging.
If Yorkshire are unable to secure a replacement in time, it may further weaken their already underperforming squad and impact their chances of climbing the points table.
ESPNcricinfo Report on Gaikwad’s Withdrawal
