Overweight and Undisciplined: Prithvi Shaw Dropped from Mumbai Ranji Trophy Squad

Mumbai selectors make a tough call on Shaw, citing fitness and discipline concerns as key reasons for his exclusion.

In a shocking turn for Prithvi Shaw’s cricketing career, the once-promising Mumbai batter has been dropped from the squad for their upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Tripura. The decision, made by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) selection committee, is reported to be based on Shaw’s fitness and discipline issues, with his 35% body fat raising alarm bells among coaches and selectors.

Shaw’s commitment to fitness has been a growing concern, compounded by his irregular attendance at net sessions and lack of seriousness when it comes to practice. According to sources, Shaw has repeatedly shown indifference to training routines, frequently missing practice sessions, which prompted the selectors to take disciplinary action.

The 25-year-old opener’s on-field performances this season haven’t helped his case either. In his four innings during two Ranji matches, Shaw managed just 7, 12, 1, and 39 not out. As a result, the selectors, along with team captain Ajinkya Rahane and the coaching staff, unanimously agreed that Shaw needed to be benched for at least one match.

Shaw, who made his debut for India with much fanfare in 2018, has struggled to maintain his position at the top level, largely due to off-field issues. His body fat percentage, currently at 35%, has been a significant concern for the management. He has been directed to follow a two-week intensive fitness program prepared by MCA trainers before being considered for selection again.

Veteran cricketers in the Mumbai squad, like Shreyas Iyer, Shardul Thakur, and Rahane, have consistently set the bar high with their work ethic, attending every practice session and maintaining peak physical condition. In contrast, Shaw’s recurring absences and lack of dedication have put him on a precarious path.

Shaw’s replacement in the squad is Akhil Herwadkar, a left-handed opener with considerable experience. Herwadkar, who last played for Chhattisgarh in 2022, is expected to bring stability to the team’s top order in their upcoming clash.

This disciplinary action could serve as a wake-up call for Shaw, whose career trajectory has been hampered by fitness and behavioral issues. The selectors and team management hope that this temporary exclusion will motivate him to regain his form and discipline, both on and off the field.

image credit: indianexpress.com

read also:Polly Inglis Earns Maiden Call-Up as New Zealand Women Announce Squad for India ODIs