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Prithvi Shaw, once regarded as a cricketing prodigy, hit a significant low in his career when he went unsold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
IPL 2025 mega auction: Disappointment for Prithvi Shaw
Shaw, who had a base price of just INR 75 lakh, failed to attract any bids, signaling a sharp decline in his market value. This setback comes after the 24-year-old opener was released by the Delhi Capitals (DC), a franchise he had been a part of since 2018. For a player who started his career with immense promise, this development highlights the growing questions surrounding his future in competitive cricket. Shaw’s exclusion from the auction is not just a reflection of his recent performances but also of underlying issues that have plagued his career.
A glittering start overshadowed by controversies
Shaw’s career began on a dream note. In 2018, he led India’s U19 team to an undefeated World Cup victory, earning widespread acclaim for his leadership and batting. His stellar performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, and he was picked up by the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) for INR 1.2 crore. By then, Shaw was a household name, celebrated as one of Indian cricket’s brightest talents.
However, the rise was followed by a series of setbacks. In 2019, Shaw was handed an eight-month suspension by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for inadvertently consuming a banned substance found in cough syrup. Although Shaw maintained that the incident was accidental, the suspension tarnished his reputation. Over the next few years, his off-field behavior, including reports of late-night parties and neglecting fitness, further eroded trust among team management.
Also READ: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Full list of unsold players along with their base price
Instances that raised concerns
Shaw’s troubles weren’t confined to isolated incidents. During a practice match in Sydney in 2020, Ajinkya Rahane reportedly caught him feigning an injury to avoid fielding, raising questions about his dedication. In 2021, Ricky Ponting, then head coach of the Delhi, publicly expressed frustration over Shaw’s refusal to attend extra net sessions despite being out of form. Such reports highlighted a troubling lack of focus and professionalism, compounding concerns over his attitude.
Shaw’s journey has been marred by controversies off the field as well. In 2023, he made headlines for an altercation with a social media influencer outside a hotel, further damaging his image. By 2024, his cricketing relevance had waned to the point where he was dropped from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad, marking a significant fall from grace.
Fitness and lifestyle concerns
Apart from form and discipline, Shaw’s fitness has been a recurring issue. He reportedly failed the yo-yo test, an essential benchmark for professional cricketers, and faced body-shaming on social media. While his talent remains unquestioned, these concerns about his physical and mental preparedness have raised doubts about his ability to sustain a long-term career.
Shaw’s unsold status in the IPL 2025 auction represents more than a temporary setback – it underscores the precarious state of his cricketing journey. For a player who was once compared to legends like Sachin Tendulkar, this rapid fall from grace is as surprising as it is disappointing. Shaw’s story is a reminder of how quickly prodigious talent can falter without focus, discipline, and consistent performances.
Glimmer of hope amidst challenges: A wake-up call for redemption
Despite the odds, Shaw’s career may not be over. At just 25 years of age, time is still on his side to make a comeback. His natural ability with the bat, particularly his explosive style of play, offers hope for a revival. However, for this to happen, Shaw must undertake a complete transformation—focusing on fitness, regaining form, and demonstrating a more professional approach both on and off the field.
The IPL 2025 auction could serve as a much-needed wake-up call for Shaw. For someone who once carried the weight of great expectations, this moment represents an opportunity to reassess his priorities and work on his shortcomings. Whether Shaw can turn his career around will depend on his willingness to adapt and commit to the demands of modern cricket.
For now, Shaw’s journey stands as a cautionary tale-of how talent alone is not enough and how focus, discipline, and hard work are equally vital for sustained success in the competitive world of cricket. His supporters, while disheartened, will hope that this setback marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that sees Shaw rise again and fulfill the promise he once showed.
