Prithvi Shaw ready to start second innings after career setbacks

Dubai: Once hailed as India’s next big batting sensation, Prithvi Shaw is now charting a new course in domestic cricket. The 25-year-old, who has faced a series of setbacks both on and off the field, has officially parted ways with Mumbai and will represent Maharashtra in the upcoming Indian domestic season.

Shaw’s move comes on the heels of a difficult period in his career. After being dropped from the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad last season, he went unsold in the 2025 Indian Premier League auction — a stark fall for a player once seen as a future mainstay of the Indian top order.

A prodigious talent who captained India to the ICC Under-19 World Cup title in 2018, Shaw has played five Tests and six ODIs. But in recent years, his progress has stalled amid concerns over fitness, discipline, and off-field controversies. His last competitive outing was in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final, which Mumbai won under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy.

Now, Shaw is looking to reboot his career in a new environment. “At this stage of my career, I believe joining the Maharashtra team will help me grow further as a cricketer,” Shaw said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful to the Mumbai Cricket Association for the opportunities and support I have received over the years.”

He praised the efforts of the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA), citing its initiatives to promote the sport across the state. “Maharashtra Cricket Association has made remarkable efforts in recent years to enhance cricketing infrastructure. Initiatives like the Maharashtra Premier League, Women’s MPL, Corporate Shield, and D.B. Deodhar Tournament are testament to their vision. I’m confident that being part of such a progressive set-up will positively impact my journey as a cricketer,” he added.

Shaw also expressed enthusiasm about teaming up with some of Maharashtra’s top players, including Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rahul Tripathi, Ankit Bawne, Rajneesh Gurbani, and Mukesh Choudhary.

MCA president Rohit Pawar welcomed the move, describing Shaw as a valuable addition to the squad. “We are delighted to welcome a player of Prithvi Shaw’s calibre to the Maharashtra team. His inclusion adds tremendous strength to an already talented squad. Shaw’s international and IPL experience will be invaluable, especially for mentoring younger players,” Pawar said.

Shaw is expected to participate in the current edition of the Deodhar Tournament, marking the beginning of his second innings in domestic cricket.

Once regarded as a generational talent, Shaw now faces the challenge of reclaiming his place in the Indian cricket conversation — starting with a fresh start in Maharashtra.