Prithvi Shaw Omitted From Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy Squad Over Fitness Concerns

Mumbai, 22nd October 2024: In a significant setback for Prithvi Shaw’s cricket career, the opening batter has been omitted from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad. While the team management has not disclosed specific reasons for his exclusion, it is widely believed that his attitude toward fitness and discipline has raised concerns among the coaches. The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) selection committee, which includes Sanjay Patil (chairman), Ravi Thaker, Jeetendra Thackeray, Kiran Powar, and Vikrant Yeligeti, has reportedly decided to leave Shaw out for at least one match in the Ranji Trophy.

Reports suggest that Shaw’s lack of discipline has become a significant issue for the Maharashtra Cricket Association. The selectors and team management aim to send a message to Shaw through his omission from the squad.

One of the primary concerns for the team management has been Shaw’s habit of arriving late to net sessions. Sources indicate that he does not take these practice sessions seriously and has been irregular in his attendance. Many observers have noted that he appears to be overweight, indicating a lack of commitment to his professional responsibilities.

In contrast, seasoned players such as Shreyas Iyer, Shardul Thakur, and captain Ajinkya Rahane are noted for their consistent dedication to practice sessions. Shaw, however, has missed several practices, even after disappointing performances.

The decision to drop Shaw was reportedly not solely made by management and selectors; both the captain and coach were also in favour of his exclusion from the squad.

Shaw, who made his Test debut for India against the West Indies in Rajkot in 2018, has seen his career decline due to off-field issues. In the two Ranji matches he has played this season, he scored 7 and 12 against Baroda and 1 and an unbeaten 39 against Maharashtra.

As a talented batter looking to secure a return to the Indian national team through consistent performances, Shaw’s current situation does not appear to be helping his case.