Indian batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad’s centuries appear to coincide with India’s defeats. After scoring his maiden T20 century (123) against Australia in Guwahati in November 2023, India lost that match despite posting a record 222 runs. On Wednesday in Raipur, Gaikwad struck his maiden ODI century (105) as India set a formidable 358-run target against South Africa. However, the Proteas chased it down with four balls to spare, winning by four wickets and leveling the series 1–1. Both of Gaikwad’s career centuries have come in high-scoring matches that ended in Indian defeats, raising questions about India’s bowling depth and match finishing under pressure. The loss was particularly disappointing for the home crowd, who witnessed another record total go in vain.