Prithvi Shaw, once celebrated as one of India’s most promising young cricketers, recently faced a career setback after going unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Despite a low base price of ₹75 lakh, none of the ten franchises showed interest in acquiring the 24-year-old. Shaw has since addressed the trolling and criticism on social media, expressing his frustration and confusion over the harsh judgments, saying, “What wrong have I done?”
This is a significant moment for Shaw, who must now contend with both public opinion and the challenge of reviving his cricketing career.
From Teenage Prodigy to IPL Rejection
Prithvi Shaw’s rise in cricket was meteoric. At just 14, he made headlines with a record-breaking 546-run knock in a school tournament, a feat that placed him firmly in the public eye. By 2018, Shaw was donning the Indian jersey, smashing a debut Test century against the West Indies in Rajkot. His aggressive batting style, often compared to legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara, earned him accolades from across the cricketing spectrum .
In the IPL, Shaw initially shone for the Delhi Capitals, particularly during the 2021 season when he amassed 479 runs at an explosive strike rate of 160. However, his form has since tapered off, with inconsistency and fitness issues becoming prominent concerns. Over the last two IPL seasons, Shaw scored only 587 runs at an average of 24, a far cry from his earlier standards. These struggles, combined with off-field controversies, led to his release by the Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2025 auction .
The Backlash and Social Media Trolling of Prithvi Shaw
After the auction, Shaw faced intense trolling on social media. Critics and fans questioned his dedication and fitness, with some blaming his perceived lack of discipline for his decline. Speaking out against the criticism, Shaw took to social media, questioning the negativity he has received. His comment, “What wrong have I done?” reflects his disbelief at the lack of support from fans and the cricketing community .
Expert Opinions on Prithvi Shaw’s Future
Cricket experts have weighed in on Shaw’s predicament, with many emphasizing the need for a renewed focus on fitness and form. Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif, who has worked closely with Shaw during his stint at Delhi Capitals, highlighted that Shaw has immense talent but must prioritize professionalism and fitness to make a comeback. Kaif remarked that the IPL franchises’ lack of interest should serve as a wake-up call for the young batter.
Several analysts have noted that Shaw’s struggles are not purely technical but also psychological. The pressure of being in the limelight from a young age, coupled with setbacks in his career, may have taken a toll on his confidence and approach to the game.
The Path to Redemption
Despite this setback, Shaw’s career is far from over. He still holds immense potential, as evidenced by his impressive strike rate of 151 in T20 cricket. His aggressive style of play remains a valuable asset in the shorter formats, provided he can address the underlying issues affecting his game.
Shaw’s immediate focus will likely be on regaining fitness and form through domestic cricket. He has been a prolific scorer in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, where he once scored a record-breaking 379 runs in a single innings. These performances could pave the way for his return to the IPL as a mid-season replacement, a possibility left open by the auction process.
Lessons from Other Players
Many cricketers have faced similar setbacks early in their careers only to stage remarkable comebacks. For instance, players like Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik worked on their fitness, skills, and mental strength to reclaim their places in the Indian team and the IPL. Shaw can draw inspiration from such journeys as he seeks to turn his career around.
Franchise cricket is as much about perception as it is about talent. Shaw must focus on rebuilding his image as a dedicated and reliable player. Engaging with mentors, maintaining discipline, and showcasing consistency in domestic cricket will be critical for him in the coming months.
Conclusion
Prithvi Shaw’s journey from prodigy to IPL snub is a cautionary tale about the importance of consistency and professionalism in modern cricket. While the trolling and criticism he has faced are harsh, they also underscore the high expectations placed on him due to his talent.
Prithvi Shaw’s question, “What wrong have I done?” is a poignant reminder of the challenges young athletes face in navigating fame, scrutiny, and the demands of professional sport. His response to this setback will determine the next chapter of his career, and fans across India will undoubtedly hope for his redemption. With hard work and focus, Shaw has the tools to make a strong comeback and reclaim his place among cricket’s elite
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