Prithvi Shaw, the out-of-favor Indian batter, was recently spotted working on his fitness at the MCA-BKC ground during Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match against Odisha. Shaw, who has been dropped from the Mumbai team due to issues related to form, fitness, and discipline, has been taking steps to regain his place, and this fitness session marks a positive step in his journey.
The renewed focus on Shaw's fitness follows a letter of support and motivation from former India head coach Greg Chappell, which was reportedly delivered to Shaw after his exclusion. The letter, published by the Times of India, offered Shaw both encouragement and advice, urging him to use this challenging time as a turning point in his career. Chappell highlighted how adversity can shape not only an athlete’s career but also their character, encouraging Shaw to stay committed to his growth and development.
According to reports, Shaw was seen running on a track near the ground and spent over 30 minutes doing drills under the supervision of Mumbai Cricket Association’s trainer Amogh Pandit. The incident shows Shaw's determination to improve and put in the hard work necessary to make a successful comeback.
Chappell’s letter reminded Shaw of his immense potential, recalling the young batter's dazzling performances for India’s Under-19 team, which had initially raised expectations for his international career. Chappell reassured Shaw that those who recognize his talent are still watching his progress, believing that Shaw's best is yet to come.
In the letter, Chappell advised Shaw to view this setback as an opportunity for self-reflection. "I understand you're facing a challenging time right now, being out of the Mumbai team. It's natural to feel frustrated, but I want you to know that these moments are often the turning points for athletes," Chappell wrote. He emphasized that such challenges could ultimately help shape Shaw into the player he aspires to become.
Drawing from his own career, Chappell shared that even legendary cricketers like Don Bradman faced being dropped at various points and had to fight their way back. "What made them great was not avoiding challenges, but how they responded to them," Chappell added. He encouraged Shaw to focus not only on refining his cricket skills but also on strengthening his mindset and attitude, which are crucial for long-term success.
Chappell went on to stress the importance of discipline and sacrifice, advising Shaw to prioritize his fitness, diet, and overall lifestyle. He encouraged Shaw to approach this period with self-discipline, as “the pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret.”
Concluding his letter, Chappell emphasized that Shaw’s past performances do not define his future. "You're still in your prime, with many years ahead of you," Chappell wrote, urging Shaw to visualize the cricketer and person he wants to become and to surround himself with people who inspire him to improve.
The letter concluded on an optimistic note, with Chappell reaffirming that the door to the Indian team remains open, but only if Shaw is willing to commit to the hard work and growth required to return to the highest level of the game. Shaw’s visible efforts to improve his fitness signal his determination to heed this advice and work toward a successful comeback.
