What went so wrong that Prithvi Shaw doesn’t even want to play for Mumbai anymore?
Once hailed as the next big thing — a Sehwag-meets-Sachin hybrid — Shaw's cricketing graph has had more plot twists than a Korean drama. From whispers of being a “future India captain” to now struggling to find a spot even in Mumbai’s Ranji squad, his journey has been... let’s just say, far from inspiring.
But why leave one of India’s most prestigious state cricket setups?
Well, for starters, Mumbai’s batting lineup is stacked. With Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane, and Shivam Dube already in the mix, Shaw’s chances to rebuild his career and reputation were getting slimmer.
Translation: too many stars, and Shaw wasn’t shining the brightest anymore.
To make matters worse, his form hasn’t exactly been helping. In the last Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he scored just 197 runs across 9 innings, averaging 21.8. That’s nowhere near the numbers a struggling player needs to make a statement. Yes, Mumbai won the title, but Shaw’s performances were blink-and-you-missed-it, rather than match-winning.
And then came that blunt comment from Mumbai skipper Shreyas Iyer: “We can't babysit anyone. He needs to get his work ethics right.” Not uncalled for. Shaw’s talent has never been in question — not even by Iyer. But his attitude and professionalism? That’s been a different story.
Let’s take a quick tour of Shaw’s “off-field highlights”:
- Suspended for banned substance - check
- Dressing room drama - check
- Refusing to train despite poor form - check
- Yo-Yo Test failed - check
- Public misconduct and FIR - check
It’s been a rough six years. But could a fresh start revive his career?
Here’s the thing: Shaw still has the 4th-best List A average in the world (55.7) among active players. That’s not ordinary. Maybe all he needs is a new jersey, a smaller state side, fewer distractions, and a chance to be the main guy again.
Will switching states change his fortunes? That remains to be seen. But if there’s anyone who can turn it around, it’s Prithvi Shaw himself. And honestly? This move might just be his best decision yet.
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