‘Focus on cricket, not teams’: Wasim Akram’s key advice to Prithvi Shaw amid DC opener’s poor form in IPL 2024

The journey of Delhi Capitals (DC) of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 it has been very varied, with a balance of victories and defeats, yet they persist in the pursuit of final contention. With six wins and six losses in their 12 matches so far, they are in a crucial position with the upcoming matches against the club. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as well as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), both strong contenders in the qualifying rounds. Despite seeing an uptick in activity in the latter part of the season, one notable thing has always been the inconsistent form of their opening, Prithvi Shaw.

A bold statement by Wasim Akram

Former Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram commented on Shaw’s challenges this season. Akram appreciated Shaw’s abilities but offered guidance to the young Indian player. Shaw has struggled to find a place in the national team due to fluctuating performances and off-field issues.

“I haven’t had a good look at him this year, but he has to get back to his form, play first-class cricket and score a lot of goals. Focus on cricket, not parties,” Akram said on Sportskeeda.

“He still has a lot of cricket left in him, just go back and play first-class cricket. Get hundreds of years and make a comeback. That’s the only way. There is no shortcut. He has time on his hands, and that’s good for him,” he added.

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The poor form continues for Prithvi Shaw

Last season, Shaw’s form left much to be desired, and he passed the historic 100-run mark in eight outings. Although he has shown improvement this year, he is still searching for his top form. In 8 matches, he has amassed 198 runs at an impressive strike rate of 163.64. His absence from the lineup when DC recently won the team Rajasthan Royals (RR) hinting at the emergence of Jake Fraser-McGurk and Abhishek Porel, who gave stellar performances in the opening scenes.

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