Mumbai: Shaw has formally approached the MCA seeking permission to play for a different state association as a "professional" cricketer. A senior MCA source confirmed to The Indian Express that the association has received his request and will make a decision soon.
"He has sought NoC from us and we will take decision on it soon," the source revealed, indicating that Shaw's decade-long association with Mumbai cricket may be coming to an end.
Fitness Concerns Lead to Selection Axe
The 25-year-old's relationship with Mumbai cricket soured after he was dropped from the Ranji Trophy squad last year due to alarming fitness concerns. The team management's assessment revealed that Shaw's body fat percentage had reached 35%, prompting the MCA to prescribe a rigorous two-week fitness program.
Despite the intervention, Shaw's fitness levels failed to meet the required standards. The selection committee's patience finally ran out when they decided to exclude him from both the Ranji Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy in December 2024.
Multiple State Offers on the Table
According to sources, Shaw has received attractive offers from two to three states earlier this month. These opportunities have prompted his decision to seek a fresh start away from Mumbai, where he has faced increasing scrutiny over his professionalism and commitment.
Shaw's Emotional Farewell Message
In his formal email to the MCA, Shaw expressed gratitude while explaining his decision:
"Would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for the valuable opportunities and unwavering support extended to me during my time representing the association. It has truly been an honor and a privilege to be part of the MCA setup."
The opener emphasized that his decision comes after "careful consideration" and maintains "utmost respect for the MCA." He described the new opportunity as one that will "further contribute to my growth and development as a cricketer."
Statistical Excellence Amid Personal Struggles
Despite his off-field issues, Shaw's numbers tell a compelling story. In his emotional social media post following his selection snub, he highlighted his impressive List A record: "65 innings, 3399 runs at an average of 55.7 with a strike rate of 126."
His recent performances in England's One Day Cup for Northamptonshire showed glimpses of his talent, with scores of 97, 72, 9, 23, and 17 in his last five innings. However, his domestic form in India has been inconsistent, with his last five Mumbai appearances yielding 32, 54, 39, 51, and 10.
Captain's Tough Love Approach
Mumbai captain Shreyas Iyer didn't mince words when discussing Shaw's situation after the team's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy victory. His comments reflected the team's frustration with the opener's approach:
"We can't babysit anyone, right? He has played so much cricket. Everyone has given him inputs. At the end of the day, it's his job to figure out things for himself."
IPL Setback Compounds Woes
Shaw's career struggles were further highlighted when he went unsold in the IPL 2024 auction, marking a significant fall from grace for someone once considered among India's most promising young talents.
What's Next for Shaw?
As Shaw awaits the MCA's decision on his NOC request, the cricket community watches closely. His potential move to another state could provide the fresh start he desperately needs to revive his career.
The saga highlights the ongoing challenges faced by talented cricketers who struggle with fitness and discipline issues. For Shaw, this represents perhaps his last opportunity to prove that his on-field brilliance can overcome his off-field controversies.
Whether the MCA grants his request remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Prithvi Shaw's journey is far from over, and his next chapter could define the remainder of his cricket career.
