Thrilled about captaining India, the talented 26-year-old said that the aim would be to win the gold medal and ensure India’s national anthem is played at the podium.
The men’s cricket event at the Asian Games will run from 28-October 8 and will be in T20 format.
“The dream will be to win a gold medal, stand on the podium and listen to the National anthem for the country,” Gaikwad said in a video posted by the BCCI.
The 26-year-old, who is currently part of the Test squad in the West Indies tour, has been part of India’s white-ball set up and played one ODI and nine T20Is.
With Asian Games coinciding with the ODI World Cup, the BCCI has named a second-string Indian team for the continental event in Hangzhou.
“I think this opportunity is something special and we will play a brand of cricket that would make everyone back home proud,” he said.
“It wil be really exciting to be part of to represent the country in the Asian Games and win the medal for the country.
“It’s something that we always grew up watching on TV, seeing athletes win it for the country. To get he opportunity, go out there and win the medal will be really, really special.”
“Playing for India itself is really a proud feeling, and leading the side in such a big event, will be a great opportunity for me personally, and also all the team members who are alongside me.”
With India in a transition phase, it will be a big opportunity for the Maharashtra ‘run-machine’ to show his mettle.
Cricket is being played at the Asian Games for the first time since 2014 when India did not take part. This time, India will be fielding both men’s and women’s teams.
(With inputs from PTI)
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