Prithvi Shaw Acknowledges Detour: Admits "Wrong Friends" and Loss of Focus Derailed Cricket Career

Prithvi Shaw, once hailed as a future star of Indian cricket, has openly discussed the challenges that have stalled his promising career. In a candid interview, the 25-year-old batsman admitted that poor decisions and distractions contributed to his decline, both on and off the field.

"There are a lot of things," Shaw told News24. "I have taken a lot of wrong decisions in life. I started giving less time to cricket. I used to practice a lot, but I admit that there was a distraction." He elaborated on how his focus shifted, leading to a decrease in practice time and engagement with the sport. "I made some wrong friends... Then they took me here and there. All those things. Then I got away from the track."

Shaw's career began with a sensational Test debut in 2018, scoring a century against the West Indies. This feat drew comparisons to legendary cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag. However, a lack of discipline and fitness eventually led to his downfall. From being dropped by Mumbai due to fitness issues to going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, Shaw's decline was both rapid and highly visible.

Now, Shaw is determined to make a fresh start. He has officially left the Mumbai Cricket Association and will be joining Maharashtra as a professional player. In his letter to the MCA, he expressed gratitude for their past support but emphasized the need for this move to facilitate his growth.

Despite brief comebacks, including a stint in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he struggled to maintain consistent performance.

With a new state team, a revised mindset, and honest acknowledgment of his past errors, Prithvi Shaw is determined to turn over a new leaf. Whether this marks the beginning of a successful comeback or a gradual exit from elite cricket remains to be seen. For now, he has chosen the challenging path back to the top.