Introduction
Prithvi Shaw, once hailed as the next big thing in Indian cricket, has seen his career take a dramatic turn due to a series of disciplinary issues. Shaw, who was compared to legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag, went unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This has left many cricket enthusiasts wondering what went wrong for the talented opener.
Early Promise and High Expectations
Shaw burst onto the scene in 2018 when he led the India U19 team to the U19 World Cup title. His impressive performances earned him a spot in the Delhi Capitals (DC) squad for the IPL 2018 season. Shaw’s Test debut in 2018 was nothing short of spectacular, as he scored a century against the West Indies. His aggressive style and ability to play fast-paced cricket drew comparisons to Sehwag, while his technique and elegance reminded fans of Tendulkar.
The Downfall: Disciplinary Issues and Injuries
Despite his early success, Shaw’s career has been marred by disciplinary issues and injuries. In 2020, Shaw was handed an eight-month ban for testing positive for a banned substance. He claimed it was an over-the-counter cough syrup, but the incident raised questions about his professionalism. Shaw’s off-field controversies continued, including altercations with social media influencers and allegations of misconduct in the dressing room.
Injuries have also played a significant role in Shaw’s decline. Since 2020, Shaw has struggled with fitness issues, which have affected his form and consistency. His inability to maintain peak physical condition has led to frequent breaks from the game and a loss of form.
The IPL 2025 Mega Auction: A Shocking Outcome
The IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah was a turning point for Shaw. Despite setting a base price of INR 75 lakhs, Shaw went unsold. This was a shocking development for someone who was once considered one of the most promising talents in Indian cricket. The lack of interest from franchises can be attributed to Shaw’s disciplinary issues, loss of form, and fitness struggles.
The Role of Mentors and Legends
Throughout his career, Shaw has had the opportunity to work with some of the greatest minds in cricket, including Ricky Ponting, Rahul Dravid, and Sachin Tendulkar. Despite their guidance, Shaw has struggled to heed their advice. Tendulkar, in particular, is said to have advised Shaw to prioritize discipline over talent. However, Shaw’s repeated off-field controversies suggest that he has not taken these lessons to heart.
Looking Ahead: Can Shaw Make a Comeback?
The question now is whether Shaw can turn his career around. At just 25 years old, he still has time to learn from his mistakes and make a comeback. However, it will require a significant change in his approach to the game, both on and off the field. Shaw will need to focus on his fitness, maintain discipline, and work hard to regain the trust of franchises and fans alike.
Conclusion
Prithvi Shaw’s journey from a rising star to an unsold talent is a cautionary tale about the importance of discipline and professionalism in sports. While his talent is undeniable, Shaw’s career serves as a reminder that success in cricket requires more than just skill—it requires dedication, hard work, and the ability to stay out of trouble.