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Prithvi Shaw, a prodigy once tipped to be the next big thing in Indian cricket, is charting a course for a significant comeback to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a challenging period marked by struggles with form and fitness. The 25-year-old opening batter, who unexpectedly went unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction, has expressed a strong desire to join Mumbai Indians for the 2026 season, signaling a potential fresh start and a return to his roots as a Mumbai-born cricketer.
Prithvi Shaw’s cricketing career: A tumultuous journey and unforeseen setback
Shaw’s journey in professional cricket has been a tale of stark contrasts. His early career saw a meteoric rise: he famously led India to the Under-19 World Cup title in 2018 and made a sensational Test debut, scoring a century. These early exploits quickly cemented his place in Delhi Capitals lineup, where he became a formidable force at the top of the order. Across 79 matches for the Capitals, Shaw amassed 1,892 runs at an impressive strike rate of 147.47, showcasing his aggressive, fearless approach.
However, the glitter began to fade as recurring fitness concerns, a noticeable dip in consistent performances, and off-field controversies started to impact his standing. His last appearance in the IPL came in April 2024, a brief outing against Kolkata Knight Riders where he managed only 13 runs. By the time the IPL 2025 mega auction arrived, the franchises, including his long-standing team Delhi Capitals, opted not to bid for him. This marked a significant downturn, leaving Shaw without an IPL contract for the first time since his debut season.
Shaw eyes domestic reset and IPL homecoming
In a candid interview with News24, Shaw revealed that he was “mentally prepared” for the auction outcome, indicating he had anticipated going unsold. “I saw it coming. I can understand those things. When I was dropped from Mumbai, from there itself, I could see that these things are going to happen and I have to be ready for it,” Shaw remarked, highlighting that he didn’t even watch the auction unfold. He also took full responsibility for his fitness issues, acknowledging that his dietary habits played a role in his struggles.
Looking towards the future, Shaw has made his preferred IPL destination abundantly clear: Mumbai Indians. “Maybe Mumbai, because I am from here, and then maybe I will feel good after a change,” he stated, articulating his hope that a move to his home franchise could be the catalyst needed to reignite his career. This revelation has already captivated fans and cricket pundits alike, many of whom continue to believe that Shaw’s undeniable talent remains intact, provided he can regain his discipline and unwavering focus.
Beyond the IPL, Shaw is also keen on a comprehensive reset of his domestic cricketing career. Reports indicate he is seeking a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to sever ties with the Mumbai domestic team and represent another state. This move underscores his commitment to a complete overhaul of his cricketing journey. Interest from other state associations is already evident, further emphasizing the persistent faith in his abilities despite his recent setbacks.
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