Prithvi Shaw Aims for Indian Team Comeback with IPL 2026

Prithvi Shaw's Journey Back to the Indian Team

Prithvi Shaw has been absent from the Indian cricket squad for some time, but at just 26 years old, he still has a viable chance for a return. Shaw was initially propelled into the national team due to his immense talent, even scoring a century on his Test debut. However, his performance in tough overseas conditions revealed some technical flaws, compounded by fitness issues and disciplinary challenges, leading to his exclusion from the team. His situation worsened when he went unsold during the IPL 2025 auction and again failed to attract bids in the IPL 2026 auction's first round. Fortunately, he was later picked up by the Delhi Capitals in the accelerated bidding round. Experiencing both success and a fall from grace has provided Shaw with a reality check, motivating him to make a determined effort to return to the Indian team. He views IPL 2026 as an ideal opportunity to catch the selectors' attention.

As the season approaches, the Delhi Capitals batsman shared insights into his preparations, expressing his commitment to give more than 100 percent on the field to reclaim his spot in the national squad. "I think that's why I'm playing. There's no doubt that I have to come back to the Indian team. That's why I'm working very hard. The amount of hard work I used to put in, I put in three times more today," Shaw stated in response to a query. "Actually, I don't like to talk about it, but I feel that I'm giving not 100%, but 200% to come back to the Indian team, to win this trophy or to give 100% on a match day or on a practice day as well. Whatever ups and downs happened in the last few years, I took it all with a lot of respect and a smile. And obviously, it stays in my mind when I'll be back. But there's only one way to do it: work hard and give your 100%. If you've made some mistakes, learn from them."

Shaw's Perspective on Opening Partnerships

'Whoever Opens with KL Rahul Should Make The Team Win'

While Shaw is uncertain about his role as an opener and may initially struggle to secure a spot in the starting XI, he remains unconcerned. He emphasized that whoever partners with KL Rahul at the top of the order should focus on performing well to help the team succeed. "I haven't thought about it actually. If KL (Rahul) is opening and with whosoever is opening with him should have a great season. I won't say that I should open. Whoever opens should win us the match," he remarked. Shaw acknowledged the competitive nature of cricket, noting that whether in the Ranji Trophy, IPL, or international matches, competition is always present. "Today, there are 10 openers as you can see. So there will be competition," he added.