Prithvi Shaw hits debut century for Maharashtra in style

Post by : Jyoti Singh

Photo: Reuters

Prithvi Shaw Shines on Maharashtra Debut with a Brilliant Century. Indian cricket has always been a land of immense talent, producing some of the finest batsmen and bowlers in the history of the game. Among the young names that once lit up the cricketing scene, Prithvi Shaw stood out with his explosive batting, fearless approach, and promise of greatness. However, in the last few years, Shaw’s journey has been filled with ups and downs, with questions raised over his fitness, discipline, and mental strength.

Now, at the age of 25, Shaw seems determined to script a new chapter in his career. His move to represent Maharashtra in the domestic circuit already appears to be paying off. In his debut match for his new state team during the Buchi Babu Trophy Shaw scored a memorable century against Chhattisgarh reminding everyone of the immense talent that once made him one of India’s most talked-about young cricketers.

A Century that Stood Alone

The stage was set when Chhattisgarh posted a total of 242 runs in their first innings. Maharashtra, in response, managed just 217 runs. But what stood out in that total was Shaw’s remarkable 111 runs. In what can only be described as a one-man show, Shaw carried the team almost single-handedly, with his innings making up more than half of Maharashtra’s total.

From the very beginning, Shaw looked determined. He opened the batting with his usual attacking style, reaching his half-century at more than a run-a-ball pace. His partner at the other end contributed only 10 runs in their opening stand of 71, showing how dominant Shaw was during that partnership.

But as wickets began to tumble at the other end — including the return of Maharashtra’s star player Ruturaj Gaikwad who managed only 1 run — Shaw stayed firm. Even as the team’s batting collapsed around him, he kept his focus, kept attacking, and ensured the deficit between Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh did not grow too large.

This was not just a century; it was a statement.

A New Start, a Fresh Attitude

After the day’s play, Shaw reflected on his innings and his journey so far. He admitted that he was no stranger to setbacks but had chosen to rebuild his game and life with confidence.

I don’t mind coming from scratch again because I’ve seen many ups and downs in my life, Shaw said. I’m a very confident guy, confident in myself and my work ethic. I feel, I hope that this season will go well for me as well as for my team.

Shaw’s words showed a maturity that many critics felt was missing in the past.

Back to Basics

When asked what had changed to bring about such a performance, Shaw’s answer was simple: it was not about making big changes but about going back to basics.

I don’t want to change anything. I just went back to the things I used to do in my Under-19 days, which got me to the Indian team. Practising more, gym, running — these small things make a difference. It’s not that big because I’ve been doing these things since the age of 12 or 13, he explained.

It was a reminder that cricket often rewards consistency and discipline over glamour and big shifts. Shaw’s decision to sharpen the smaller aspects of his game seems to be giving him the stability he long needed.

Cutting Out Distractions

One of the key areas Shaw has been working on is discipline — not just physical, but also mental. Over the years, he had been criticised for being distracted and for spending too much time on social media. Shaw himself admitted that he had made changes on this front.

Just trying to be myself and not being on social media or anything like that. Nowadays social media is quite bad. It’s kind of peaceful when I’m not using it, he said.

By limiting his exposure to negative comments and online criticism, Shaw has allowed himself to focus purely on cricket and his personal growth.

Mental Health and Support

Perhaps the most touching part of Shaw’s words was his honesty about his mental health struggles in the past. When asked whether he had received any messages of support from former players or teammates after his century, he admitted he had not — but said he didn’t need it.

I mean, it’s fine. I don’t want anyone’s sympathy. It’s okay. I’ve seen this before as well. I’ve got my family’s support and my friends who were there with me when I was not well mentally. So, it’s okay, Shaw shared.

It was clear that Shaw is drawing strength from those closest to him — his family and true friends — rather than seeking outside validation.

A Reminder of His Talent

For fans who had almost given up on Shaw, this innings is a reminder of what he can bring to the game. The same attacking stroke play, fearless attitude, and ability to score runs quickly that made him a star in his early days were all on display.

Though Shaw has not played for India since 2021 such performances show that he still has the hunger and ability to make a comeback. At 25, time is still on his side, provided he continues to focus on discipline, fitness, and consistency.

Learning from the Past

Shaw’s career has been a story of great highs and disappointing lows. From scoring a century on his Test debut for India in 2018 to facing criticism over his fitness and lifestyle, his journey has been far from smooth. Injuries, loss of form, and off-field issues had all pushed him out of the national reckoning.

But with this fresh start in Maharashtra, Shaw seems ready to put the past behind him. His willingness to admit mistakes, return to basics, and keep away from distractions shows a cricketer trying to rebuild not just his career, but also his identity.

The Road Ahead

The question now is whether Shaw can maintain this level of performance across the season. Domestic cricket is often the testing ground for players aiming to return to the national side. For Shaw, consistent runs in the Buchi Babu Trophy and other tournaments could bring him back into contention for India.

His journey will not be easy. Competition for batting spots in India’s national team is fierce, with many young players waiting for their chance. But if Shaw continues to score runs and keep his focus intact, there is every chance he could once again don the Indian jersey.

More Than Just Runs

What makes Shaw’s latest performance stand out is not just the runs, but the resilience behind them. It was about a young man choosing to fight again, refusing to give up despite past criticism.

Cricket fans across the country will be watching closely, hoping that Shaw can finally fulfil the promise he showed as a teenager. For now, his century on debut for Maharashtra is a powerful symbol — not just of his batting, but of his determination to rise again.

Prithvi Shaw’s innings of 111 runs against Chhattisgarh is more than a number on the scoreboard. It is a story of redemption, of a player trying to reclaim his lost ground, and of a young man choosing discipline and hard work over distractions.

As Shaw himself said, he is not looking for sympathy, but for a fresh chance. With his family’s support and a renewed sense of purpose, he has taken the first step towards what could be an inspiring comeback.

For Indian cricket, and Shaw himself, this may well be the start of a new journey filled with hope, determination, and a reminder that talent, when matched with discipline, can never be ignored for long.

Prithvi Shaw