Cricketer Prithvi Shaw has consistently been a captivating blend of extraordinary raw talent and unavoidable controversy. His recent performance in a three-day practice match between Mumbai and Maharashtra at Pune’s MCA Stadium highlighted this perfectly. Shaw dazzled with an impressive 181 runs off 220 balls, featuring 21 fours and three sixes, building a formidable 305-run partnership with Arshin Kulkarni. However, this magnificent innings was unfortunately overshadowed by a heated on-field altercation with Mumbai bowler Musheer Khan. Reports indicate the argument ignited after Musheer’s ‘Thank you’ jibe following a dismissal. Shaw allegedly responded by grabbing Khan’s collar and swinging his bat in frustration, before umpires and teammates quickly intervened. Footage shows officials escorting Shaw away from the Mumbai players, underscoring that even a stellar batting display couldn’t mask his ongoing disciplinary struggles.
Prithvi Shaw (Photo by Charle Lombard/Gallo Images/Getty Images)
Early Career Controversies
July 2019 – Doping Violation
A significant setback occurred in 2019 when Shaw tested positive for terbutaline, a prohibited substance often found in cough syrups. This led to an eight-month suspension from the BCCI. While Shaw claimed he took the medication for a common cold, the incident served as a stark reminder of how even seemingly small errors can severely impact a cricketer’s reputation and career trajectory.
December 2020 – The ‘Fake Injury’ Incident
Ahead of the Australia Test series, during a warm-up match, Shaw was observed trying to feign an injury after being hit on the shin pad while fielding. He noticeably limped off the field, but Ajinkya Rahane swiftly recognised the act, discreetly reminding Shaw of the critical need for seriousness and professionalism in the sport.
April 2021 – Ponting’s Criticism
His stint with Delhi Capitals in the IPL also brought public criticism from coach Ricky Ponting. Ponting revealed that during a poor run of form, Shaw outright refused to practice, stating, ‘He looked me in the eye and said, ‘No, I’m not batting today.’ I couldn’t really work that out.’ This incident further solidified concerns about Shaw’s commitment to improving his game and his overall attitude.
Fitness Struggles and Domestic Setbacks
October 2024 – Exclusion from Mumbai’s Ranji Squad
Shaw’s fitness levels remained a significant worry, with reports indicating his body fat percentage had climbed to an alarming 35 percent. His underwhelming performances in the initial rounds of the Ranji Trophy ultimately resulted in his omission from Mumbai’s squad. Both selectors and team management stressed that sheer talent is insufficient without corresponding discipline, unwavering focus, and consistent commitment.
IPL Auction Snub
Despite being only 25 years old and having famously scored a century on his Test debut, Prithvi Shaw found no bidders in the IPL 2025 auction. This unexpected snub was largely attributed to ongoing concerns regarding his inconsistent form, fitness, and questionable work ethic. His international career, which showed immense promise starting in 2018, has been limited to just 12 matches, painting a clear picture of talent underutilized. Several former cricketers have offered advice on his path to redemption. Kevin Pietersen, for instance, strongly suggested that Shaw needs effective mentorship: ‘If Prithvi Shaw has decent people around him who care about his long-term success, they’d sit him down, tell him to get off social media & train his backside off.’
Off-Field Incidents
Shaw’s struggles with discipline aren’t confined to the cricket field. In February 2023, he was embroiled in a highly publicised altercation with social media influencer Sapna Gill, reportedly after he declined to take more selfies. This incident escalated into police complaints and further fueled the narrative that his off-field issues frequently eclipse his on-field brilliance. Shaw himself has approached his tumultuous career with a dose of humor, once likening himself to Jethalal from the popular TV show ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.’ After being dropped by Mumbai, he famously quipped, ‘Nothing like this has happened for a long time, but one thing I would like to say is that controversies catch me. I am Jethalal of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.’
Now with Maharashtra, Prithvi Shaw has a crucial fresh start to revitalize his career. His natural talent remains undeniable, yet persistent questions about his discipline, consistency, and commitment to hard work linger. Both fans and selectors will be keenly observing to see if he can finally merge his exceptional skill with a newfound maturity and professionalism to truly live up to his enormous potential.