Prithvi Shaw, one of Indian cricket’s most promising young talents, took to social media to express his disappointment after being left out of Mumbai’s squad for the first three matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. In a heartfelt Instagram Story, the 25-year-old shared his stellar List-A statistics while questioning his exclusion and vowing to make a strong comeback.
Shaw Questions Exclusion Despite Stellar Stats
Shaw has been a prolific performer in List-A cricket, amassing 3,399 runs in 65 matches at an average of 55.7 and a strike rate of 125.8. His impressive record includes 10 centuries and 14 half-centuries. Reacting to his omission, Shaw wrote,
“Tell me God, what more do I have to see? If 65 innings, 3,399 runs at an average of 55.7 with a strike rate of 126 isn’t good enough, I will still keep my faith in you. Hopefully, people still believe in me because I will come back for sure. OM SAI RAM.”
Form and Fitness Issues Continue to Trouble Shaw
Shaw’s exclusion from the Vijay Hazare Trophy squad comes after an inconsistent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign. While Mumbai clinched the title, Shaw managed just 197 runs in 9 matches at an average of 21.88. His sole significant contribution came during the quarterfinals against Vidarbha. In the crucial knockout stages, he struggled, registering scores of 8 and 10 in the semifinals and final.
Earlier this year, Shaw was also left out of the Ranji Trophy squad but worked on his fitness to make it to the Mushtaq Ali Trophy team. However, the inconsistency in domestic cricket, combined with his form, has raised concerns.
IPL Setbacks Add to Shaw’s Woes
Shaw’s struggles extended to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as well. In IPL 2024, he scored just 198 runs at an average of 24.75 with a solitary half-century. Despite his talent, he spent six matches warming the bench. Furthermore, Shaw went unsold in the IPL mega auction, even though he was presented twice at a base price of INR 75 lakh.
Experts Speak: Indiscipline and Responsibility
Former Delhi Capitals assistant coach Pravin Amre shed light on the challenges Shaw has faced, highlighting disciplinary issues during his tenure with the franchise. Speaking to The Times of India, Amre said,
“I was part of the management that backed him, but I was also involved in the decision to drop him due to indiscipline. I hope he views the IPL auction snub as a wake-up call and works on himself.”
Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer, Shaw’s teammate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, emphasized the importance of self-accountability.
“No one can babysit anyone at this level. Every professional needs to take responsibility for their own game. Shaw has proven himself in the past, and he knows what to do. It’s up to him to sit back, reflect, and find the answers.”
A Look at Shaw’s International Career
Prithvi Shaw’s international career has also hit a roadblock. In 5 Tests, 6 ODIs, and 1 T20I for India, he has scored 528 runs across all formats. His last appearance for the national team was in a T20I against Sri Lanka in July 2021.
Determined to Return Stronger
Despite these challenges, Shaw remains optimistic about his future. His social media post reflects both his frustration and his resolve to overcome adversity. With his talent and determination, many still believe that Shaw has what it takes to reclaim his place at the top level.
