Shastri's Ultimatum to Prithvi Shaw: Rise to the Challenge or Risk Uncertain Future
Prithvi Shaw registered yet another failure against Mumbai Indians (IPLT20.com)
Delhi Capitals’ opener, Prithvi Shaw, who came into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 after his remarkable performances in the domestic circuit, has had a woeful start to the tournament. Scoring just 19 runs in three matches, the youngster has failed to live up to the lofty expectations.
Ahead of Delhi Capitals’ clash against Mumbai Indians, former India head coach Ravi Shastri issued a stern ultimatum to Shaw. In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Shastri voiced his concern that Shaw should not be content with merely being used as an Impact Player, but must strive to be in the thick of things at all times. The star batter must not grow accustomed to simply batting and then retiring to the dressing room during the other innings.
The prodigious batter was utilised as an Impact Player in the game against Rajasthan Royals, but his innings ended disappointingly with him being dismissed for a duck.
“I think a player of his quality and age he wants to be in the thick of things all the time. He should want to and not say I'm happy to be an Impact Player. It's not a good sign and it won't help. I mean he is young,” said Shastri.
Ravi Shastri urges Shaw to be involved in the thick of things
The Indian veteran urged Shaw to actively participate in fielding and catching, developing good habits, and contributing to the team's success beyond just batting. He also expressed concern that the young opener retiring to the dressing room after batting would not be beneficial for a player at his age.
“You want him to be part of everything, to be in the mix and contribute with a catch to through fielding, get into good habits there rather than being in the habit of - I'm only going to bat and then feet up in the dressing room. That is not good for a guy at his age,” concluded the erstwhile cricketer.
The 23-year-old was drafted into the playing XI for the game against Mumbai Indians but he failed to make most of the opportunity as he was dismissed for a measy 15 runs off 9 balls. He was then swapped for Mukesh Kumar during the second innings. Unfortunately, Delhi Capitals went on to lose the game by six wickets, marking their fourth consecutive loss in the competition.
The Mumbai based cricketer's underwhelming performances have left his future in the IPL uncertain. However, there is still hope that Shaw will take Shastri's advice to heart and become a well-rounded player, actively contributing to his team's success on and off the field. Only time will tell if he can rise to the challenge and fulfill his potential.
 "Jatin")
