Prithvi Shawwho was once heralded as one of India’s most promising cricketing talents, has found himself at a crossroads in his career. The latest release from in Mumbai‘s Ranji Trophy team, reasons cited include physical fitness and not attending regular practice sessions. This development raises the question: what is wrong with this amazing talent? Shaw’s journey from schoolboy to international cricketer was marred by a series of controversies that overshadowed his undeniable talent.
The height of Prithvi Shaw
Shaw first caught the attention of the cricket world during his school days, where he regularly scored big runs. His remarkable performance led to the prediction of a brilliant international career. He made his Test debut in 2018, scoring a century on his debut for the team The West Indieswhich furthered the anticipation. However, despite this promising start, Shaw’s international career has stalled, with only 12 games played and his last appearance three years ago.
Early obstacles: Injuries and concentration problems
In November 2018, a few months after his debut, Shaw was selected for the Australian tour but injured his ankle in training. The unfortunate incident ruled him out of the first Test and led to reports suggesting he had “lost focus.” While Shaw dismissed these claims as mere speculation, they set a worrying precedent for what is to come.
Shaw’s career has been highlighted by various incidents that have inspired many people about his professionalism and dedication to the sport.
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Drug scandal suspends 8 months
In July 2019, Shaw faced serious problems when he was suspended for eight months after testing positive for Terbutaline, a banned substance found in certain cough syrups. He said the good result was due to the medicine available in the common cold store. However, this incident marked the beginning of a troubling trend in his career.
The Ajinkya Rahane incident
In December 2020, as R Shridhar said in his book, former Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane called Shaw out in public during a warm-up game in Sydney. After being hit on the shin pad while playing, Shaw tried to leave the field, but Rahane met him, insisting that he stay on the field. The incident not only highlighted Shaw’s attempts to evade responsibility but also raised questions about his mental toughness in the minds of cricket fans.
Criticism of Ricky Ponting as a coach
Ricky Pontingwho trained Shaw e Delhi Capitals in the IPL, expressed dismay at Shaw’s coaching methods in April 2021. Ponting noted that when Shaw struggled with his batting form, he refused to train instead of facing his difficulties. This attitude frustrated Ponting and revealed deep problems with Shaw’s approach to development.
Legal issues and social conflict in the COVID-19 lockdown
Shaw’s off-field troubles took a turn for the worse in May 2021 when he was stopped by the police for violating the COVID-19 rules while trying to travel from Maharashtra to Goa without an e-pass. This incident also tarnished his reputation in the community.
Mumbai selfie controversy
In February 2023, an argument involving fans escalated into violence when Shaw was attacked after refusing several requests for a selfie outside a hotel in Mumbai. This situation resulted in damage to his friend’s car and allegations of abuse by someone on social media. The incident not only highlighted Shaw’s struggle with fame but also brought legal scrutiny to his life.
Mental health issues and body shaming
As recently as August 2023, when he performed well in the One-Day Cup in England—where he became the first Indian batsman to score two List A scores in two centuries—Shaw faced a lot of abuse on social media. Negative comments about her body reportedly had a major impact on her mental health, showing how external pressures can affect an athlete’s performance and well-being.
Current status: Dropped from Ranji Trophy squad
In October 2024, following a poor Ranji Trophy season—in which he scored 59 runs in four innings—Shaw was dropped from the Mumbai team for their third round match against Tripura. Reports suggest that the decision was influenced by concerns over his fitness levels and commitment to training sessions. I Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) he said that letting him down is a necessary lesson for a young player.
Although some sources say that Shaw was “given a leave of absence,” it is clear that this leave is more than a temporary measure; it reflects the continuing disciplinary problems that plagued him throughout his career. With senior team members maintaining consistent training regimes, Shaw’s unusual presence raises warnings about his future in professional cricket.
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