Prithvi Shaw produced a blistering, unbeaten 222 off 156 balls for Maharashtra against Chandigarh in the Ranji Trophy, marking one of the most commanding comeback knocks of his career. His innings featured a 72-ball century, the sixth-fastest in Ranji history, and he went on to reach his double hundred in 141 balls, the second-fastest double ton in the Elite division of the tournament.
The performance comes at a significant juncture in Shaw’s cricketing journey. Once celebrated as India’s next big batting prodigy, Shaw’s rise began early. Born in Virar, he shot to national attention at the age of 14 when he scored 546 runs in a Harris Shield school match, one of the highest scores in Indian school cricket. He transitioned smoothly into first-class cricket, scoring a century in only his second Ranji innings for Mumbai in 2017.
His ascent continued when he led India to the Under-19 World Cup title in 2018, and months later, at just 18, he scored a century on Test debut against the West Indies, becoming the youngest Indian to achieve the feat. Known for his attacking stroke play, fast starts, and fearless intent, Shaw was widely seen as a natural successor in India’s opening line.
However, the journey since then has not been linear. Form dips, injuries, scrutiny over fitness, and technical faults highlighted by experts tested his resolve. After several inconsistent domestic seasons, Shaw sought a fresh beginning and moved from Mumbai to Maharashtra in search of renewal.
This knock, following a century on debut for his new team earlier this season, signals a potential turning point. The fluency of his timing, the control in his stroke-play, and the hunger to bat deep stood out as hallmarks of the player he was celebrated to become.
For Maharashtra, Shaw’s innings has swung the match their way. For Shaw himself, it is a powerful reminder to selectors, critics, and, perhaps most importantly, to himself, that the talent which once felt meteoric is very much alive.
