Prithvi Shaw’s journey in the world of cricket has been a rollercoaster of fame, controversies, and untapped potential. The 25-year-old Mumbai cricketer, known for his blistering stroke play, has spent his entire IPL career at Delhi Capitals since debuting in 2018. However, his fortunes took a sharp turn when Shaw went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, despite setting a base price of ₹75 lakh. This unexpected outcome left fans and experts questioning his future, but it also brought to light some lesser-known aspects of his life and career.
In this article, we will explore Prithvi Shaw’s early life, the challenges he faced, and the reasons behind his IPL auction snub, through the lens of his childhood coach, Raju Pathak, and other insights into Shaw’s journey.
Prithvi Shaw: From Struggles to Stardom
Born and raised in a middle-class family in Mumbai, Prithvi Shaw’s early years were far from the glamorous life that many young cricketers dream of. His father, who ventured into various businesses, struggled to provide for his family, which led Shaw to rely on help from others during his formative years. Adding to the complexity, Shaw lost his mother at a young age, leaving his father to fulfill his cricketing aspirations and guide his son in a world where the odds were often stacked against them.
Raju Pathak, Shaw’s childhood coach at Rizvi Springfield School, reflects on the hardships Shaw endured, saying, “They were not well off. His father was trying some business but it was not working out. They had seen hard times, and Shaw had to depend on others for help. He didn’t have a mother who could guide him the way only a mother can.”
Shaw’s upbringing wasn’t easy, but his cricketing talent caught the eye of scouts early. His leadership skills shone through when he captained India to victory in the U-19 World Cup in 2018. That year marked his breakthrough as a cricketer, with Shaw scoring a century on his Test debut against the West Indies. His talent seemed undeniable, and it wasn’t long before he was picked by the Delhi Capitals.
The IPL Journey: Success, Struggles, and Setbacks
Shaw’s IPL career began with great promise. His aggressive batting style and youthful energy made him one of the most exciting young players in the league. His performances in the IPL, although sometimes inconsistent, showcased glimpses of the immense talent that made him a household name in Indian cricket.
However, Shaw’s career took a hit when he was banned for doping in 2019. The controversy surrounding his suspension affected his reputation and put a dent in his career momentum. Since then, he has been embroiled in a series of public controversies, including a highly publicized feud with an Instagram influencer in Mumbai, further overshadowing his cricketing abilities.
Despite these setbacks, Shaw’s performances in domestic cricket and IPL have shown his potential. Yet, the IPL 2025 auction brought an unexpected turn of events. Despite a base price of ₹75 lakh, Shaw went unsold, sparking debate among fans and experts about his future in the tournament.
The IPL 2025 Auction: A Wake-Up Call for Prithvi Shaw?
The IPL 2025 auction, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, saw several cricketers, both young and seasoned, secure lucrative contracts. However, Shaw’s name remained uncalled, even though he has been an integral part of the Delhi Capitals for several seasons. This snub raised eyebrows, as many expected Shaw to be snapped up by at least one franchise.
The reasons behind Shaw’s unsold status are multi-faceted. While his talent is unquestionable, his off-field controversies, inconsistent performances, and questionable maturity have likely played a role in the lack of interest from IPL franchises. In his defense, Shaw’s childhood coach, Raju Pathak, believes that expecting maturity from a 25-year-old is unrealistic. “We want a 25-year-old Shaw to behave like a 40-year-old mature man,” Pathak said, shedding light on the pressures Shaw faces at such a young age.
Pathak also emphasizes Shaw’s sudden rise to fame and fortune. “He has been successful so early. The boy who once saw daily struggle and shortage of money at home suddenly has a decent bank balance. So when money keeps coming in, he will enjoy it. This happens with all players who have been deprived of things in the past.”
The Pressure of Fame and Money
Prithvi Shaw’s rise to fame and his sudden financial success may have led him down a path of distractions. Shaw, like many young cricketers who experience rapid success, has reportedly spent more time socializing with individuals outside the cricketing circle, which has raised concerns about his commitment to the game.
As Pathak rightly points out, Shaw’s desire to enjoy the fruits of his hard-earned success is understandable. “Fame, money, and a desire to live a better life—these are the things any young cricketer craves after a tough childhood,” Pathak adds. However, these distractions, coupled with Shaw’s need for maturity, may be affecting his performance and perception in the eyes of selectors and IPL teams.
Prithvi Shaw’s Future: A Crucial Turning Point
Despite the setbacks, Prithvi Shaw is still young and has plenty of time to turn his career around. His raw talent and potential have never been in question, but his personal growth, focus, and discipline will be crucial in determining whether he can return to the IPL and the Indian team.
The IPL 2025 auction may have been a wake-up call for Shaw to refocus and re-evaluate his priorities. With the right guidance and a renewed sense of purpose, Shaw has the ability to silence his critics and reclaim his place among the top cricketers in India.
Conclusion: Beyond the IPL Auction Snub
Prithvi Shaw’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and struggles that go beyond the cricket field. From a difficult childhood to the pressures of fame and money, Shaw’s journey reflects the complexities many young athletes face in their pursuit of success. The IPL 2025 auction snub is just one chapter in his career, and only time will tell whether he can rise above the controversies and return to the cricketing elite. With the right mindset and a focus on his craft, Prithvi Shaw still has a bright future ahead of him in Indian cricket.
Shaw’s supporters and critics alike will be watching closely, but one thing is certain—he has the potential to rewrite his story and prove that he is not defined by a single setback.
