Prithvi Shaw Admits to Career Downturn: Faulty Choices and Distractions Derailed Cricket Focus

Prithvi Shaw Reflects on Career Setbacks: "I Lost Focus on Cricket"

NEW DELHI: Once hailed as a future star in Indian cricket, Prithvi Shaw has openly discussed the challenges that have hindered his once-promising career.

In a recent interview, the 25-year-old cricketer admitted that poor decisions, distractions, and changing priorities contributed to his decline both on and off the field.

"There are a lot of things. It is different for people to see. Because I know what has happened. I can understand it. I have taken a lot of wrong decisions in life. I started giving less time to cricket. I used to practice a lot. For example, I used to bat for 3-4 hours in nets. I never got tired of batting. I used to go to the ground for half a day. I admit that there was a distraction,” Shaw revealed to News24.

He further elaborated, "After that, I started considering what was not necessary as necessary. I made some wrong friends. Because I was at the top at that time. Friendship is also formed. Then they took me here and there. All those things. Then I got away from the track. I used to give 8 hours of practice on the ground. Now it is 4 hours."

Shaw, who had a memorable Test debut in 2018 with a century against the West Indies, quickly gained recognition, even being compared to legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag. However, over time, issues with discipline and fitness led to his exclusion from the team. From being dropped by Mumbai due to fitness concerns to going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, the decline was significant and public.

Now, the right-handed opener is determined to make a fresh start. Shaw has officially parted ways with the Mumbai Cricket Association and is seeking new opportunities with Maharashtra as a professional player. In his letter to the MCA, Shaw expressed his gratitude for their support but emphasized that he believes a move is necessary for his growth.

While he made brief comebacks, including a stint in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, consistent performances remained elusive.

With a new state team, a renewed mindset, and honesty about his past mistakes, Prithvi Shaw is focused on turning a new page in his career. Whether this marks the beginning of a comeback story or a gradual exit from top-level cricket remains to be seen.