Shreyas Iyer’s Stern Advice to Prithvi Shaw
Mumbai cricket captain Shreyas Iyer didn’t hold back after leading his team to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). Iyer’s post-match comments highlighted one key player—Prithvi Shaw—and the need for him to step up his game both on and off the field. Known for his immense natural talent, Shaw has struggled to balance his potential with discipline, raising questions about his future in cricket.
“We Can’t Babysit Talent,” Says Iyer
Reflecting on Shaw’s performance, Iyer emphasized that the journey to success requires more than just talent. “He’s a God-gifted player,” Iyer remarked, acknowledging Shaw’s exceptional skill. However, he was quick to point out the importance of work ethics, saying, “He needs to improve his work ethics. Can I force him to? No. It’s his job to figure it out.”
Iyer firmly stated that professional players at this level must take responsibility for their growth. “No one can babysit anyone here. Shaw has played enough cricket to know what’s expected of him. He needs to sit back, reflect, and take the necessary steps to improve.”
Prithvi Shaw’s Recent Struggles
Shaw’s career trajectory has been riddled with ups and downs. Earlier this year, he was dropped from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad after reports revealed a body fat percentage of 35%, well above the acceptable limit. Although he was given another chance in SMAT, his performance fell short. Despite playing every match, Shaw couldn’t produce a single half-century and ended the tournament on a disappointing note.
Adding to his woes, Shaw went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction after being released by the Delhi Capitals. With no franchise cricket or national team opportunities on the horizon, the once-promising opener now faces the challenge of reviving his career through domestic tournaments.
A Call for Self-Reflection
Shreyas Iyer’s remarks serve as both a reality check and an encouragement for Shaw. His message is clear: while talent can open doors, discipline and hard work are what keep them open. For Shaw, this could be the turning point he needs to rediscover his form and regain his place in the cricketing world.
The Road Ahead
Prithvi Shaw still has the talent and the time to make a comeback. By focusing on fitness, work ethics, and consistent performances, he could rewrite his story and reclaim his spot in Indian cricket. But as Iyer rightly said, the effort must come from within.
