Published: December 2, 2024
Once hailed as one of India’s brightest cricketing talents, Prithvi Shaw finds himself navigating through one of the darkest phases of his career. Ahead of the IPL 2025 season, the 25-year-old opener has been left without a contract from any of the 10 franchises. This comes after a string of setbacks, including being dropped from the Indian team in all formats and struggling to break into Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad.
Shaw’s childhood coach, Santosh Pingutkar, expressed his heartbreak over the cricketer’s current plight, attributing the downfall to external distractions and a lack of focus.
The Downfall of a Prodigy
Prithvi Shaw burst onto the scene as a teenage sensation, showcasing immense promise with his aggressive batting style. However, over the past 2-3 years, his career has been plagued by fitness issues, lapses in discipline, and a perceived lack of commitment.
Pingutkar believes that Shaw’s association with groups outside cricket has significantly contributed to his struggles.
“He was more involved in his groups outside cricket. Other activities, everything but his game, saw a rise. While he loves cricket, he couldn’t channel that passion into consistent effort,” Pingutkar said in an interview.
Hope for Redemption
Despite the setbacks, Shaw’s coach remains optimistic about his ability to stage a comeback.
“He is just 25 years old. He still has age on his side. With hard work, he can bounce back and sustain in competitive cricket. Everyone’s blessings are with him,” Pingutkar added.
The road ahead for Shaw is challenging, especially after being released by Delhi Capitals and going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction despite listing himself with a base price of INR 75 lakh.
A Lesson for Aspiring Cricketers
Shaw’s current situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of discipline, focus, and sustained effort in professional sports. With the cricketing world closely watching, the next chapter in Prithvi Shaw’s career will depend on his willingness to work hard, overcome distractions, and rediscover the passion that once made him a standout performer.
The Board of Sports in India (BOSI) wishes Shaw the best in his efforts to reignite his career and serve as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country. Stay tuned for more updates on his journey and other cricketing stories.
