Prithvi Shaw’s cricketing journey, once filled with promise and high expectations, has taken another hit with his exclusion from Mumbai’s squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Despite being one of the most talented young batters in the country and excelling in the 50-over format, Shaw’s recent struggles with fitness, discipline, and form have overshadowed his abilities.
An official from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), speaking anonymously to PTI, provided insights into why the selectors chose to leave Shaw out of the squad.
“He Is His Own Worst Enemy”
The MCA official didn’t hold back, stating, “No one is Shaw’s enemy. He is his own enemy.” Highlighting Shaw’s declining performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), the official explained that his fitness issues impacted the team’s fielding.
“In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, we were essentially playing with 10 fielders because Shaw’s mobility was a major concern. The ball would often pass near him, and he wouldn’t be able to reach it,” the source revealed.
While Shaw played a role in Mumbai’s SMAT and Ranji Trophy campaigns, his returns with the bat have been underwhelming. In the SMAT, he managed only 197 runs in seven matches, a far cry from the consistency expected of a top-order batter.
“No Different Rules for Different Players”
The MCA official also emphasized the importance of discipline, saying that no player could expect special treatment. “Even while batting, he appeared troubled when reaching for deliveries. His fitness, discipline, and attitude are lacking. It’s a simple rule: there cannot be different rules for different players,” the source said.
Issues with Team Dynamics
Shreyas Iyer, Mumbai’s limited-overs captain, had earlier advised Shaw to focus on his game and improve his discipline after Mumbai’s SMAT victory. However, it appears the team’s patience is wearing thin.
During the SMAT, Shaw reportedly missed training sessions and was seen returning to the team hotel at six in the morning after staying out all night. “Even the senior players in the team have started complaining about his behavior,” the source disclosed.
Shaw’s Social Media Rant
Shaw’s reaction to his omission from the Vijay Hazare Trophy squad further strained his relationship with the selectors. In a social media post, he highlighted his impressive List A record, where he averages 55. However, the selectors remained unmoved, with the MCA official stating, “Such posts on Instagram have no impact on the selectors or the MCA.”
Mumbai’s Campaign Moves On
Mumbai will begin their Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign with a high-profile clash against Karnataka at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel B Ground in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, Shaw’s omission serves as a reminder that raw talent alone cannot secure a place in a competitive team without the accompanying discipline, fitness, and commitment.
This latest chapter in Prithvi Shaw’s career highlights the challenges he must overcome to fulfill his immense potential and reclaim his spot in Mumbai’s squad and beyond.
