Shreyas Iyer Believes Prithvi Shaw Can Soar with Improved Work Ethics

Bengaluru, Dec 16 (NationPress) Mumbai's skipper Shreyas Iyer has called on his teammate Prithvi Shaw, who has been facing challenges, to refine his work ethics in order to succeed in his professional journey. Shaw contributed to Mumbai's title-winning effort in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).

This past Sunday, Mumbai triumphed over Madhya Pradesh by five wickets to claim the championship for the second time. Shaw, who had been dropped from the Mumbai lineup during the early phase of the Ranji Trophy due to fitness issues, made a return to the squad for the SMAT. The opener participated in all nine matches of Mumbai's tournament run, accumulating 197 runs at a strike rate of 156.34, averaging just under 22. While he had five noteworthy performances, they were mixed with four low scores.

“I believe he is a naturally gifted player. The level of talent he has is unparalleled. It's true. However, he must enhance his work ethics. I've mentioned it before in multiple interviews. If he manages to do that, the sky is the limit for him. Can I compel him to do it? No, I can't. He has extensive cricket experience, and everyone has provided him with guidance. Ultimately, it’s up to him to go out there and discover the solutions,” Iyer stated regarding Shaw.

Shaw was also removed from the Delhi Capitals' squad and went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction the previous month due to his lackluster performance in the IPL 2024 season.

“We cannot baby anyone, right? Every professional competing at this level should understand their responsibilities. He has succeeded in the past. He needs to concentrate, take a moment to reflect, and figure things out for himself. He will find the answers. No one can force him to do anything,” Iyer elaborated.

Shaw's 2023-24 season was interrupted by a knee injury during his stint with Northamptonshire, which kept him out of both the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He made a commendable comeback in the Ranji Trophy, scoring 451 runs at an average of 50.11, showcasing his potential. Nonetheless, his IPL 2024 campaign was disappointing, where he managed only 198 runs at an average of 24.75, with just one half-century, spending six matches on the bench.

As the 2024 season progressed, Shaw's difficulties escalated. In four Ranji innings, he registered a scant 59 runs, underscoring his ongoing struggle for form. His performance in the SMAT further deteriorated as he recorded just 8 and 10 in his last two matches, finishing his campaign with 197 runs at an average of 21.88.

Shaw has participated in five Tests, six ODIs, and one T20I for India, with his last appearance in national colors occurring in July 2021.