Cricket News, IPL 2026, Prithvi Shaw, Cricket Updates
Prithvi Shaw is set for a comeback with Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of IPL 2026, marking a significant turnaround after going unsold in the 2025 auction. The young opener will now look to make the most of a second chance following a challenging couple of seasons.
Shaw’s recent IPL form had been underwhelming, managing just 304 runs in 16 innings across the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He was eventually dropped midway through IPL 2024, and his struggles extended to domestic cricket, where he was left out of the Mumbai squad during the 2024–25 season. He later moved to Maharashtra in search of a fresh start.
Reflecting on his time away from the game, Shaw described the break as a turning point. “I enjoyed my life a lot. I travelled to a couple of destinations to refresh my mind,” he said. “After that, I came back and worked even harder. Whether it was training or batting, I started doing everything three times more. It was a good break for me—I needed it to become mentally stronger.”
Shaw also addressed the criticism he has faced in recent years, including remarks from former Mumbai teammate Shreyas Iyer about improving his work ethic. Acknowledging his mistakes, Shaw emphasized personal growth and resilience.
“I am a human being; I will make mistakes,” he said. “People only know half the story. My family and close friends know me completely. Earlier, such things affected me, but I’ve learned to ignore them. I believe in myself because I know my journey and how hard I’ve worked. That phase is in the past—now I feel mentally happier when I step onto the ground.”
At Delhi Capitals, Shaw will face stiff competition for a spot at the top of the order. He will be vying alongside Pathum Nissanka and Abishek Porel to open the innings with captain KL Rahul.
Delhi Capitals, who last reached the IPL playoffs in 2021, will begin their 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants on April 1 in Lucknow. With renewed focus and determination, Shaw will be aiming to re-establish himself as a key player in the franchise’s lineup.
