Prithvi Shaw's decision to leave Mumbai and move to Maharashtra in the summer for opportunities is paying dividends. The opener smashed a blistering double century in only his second outing for his new team in the Ranji Trophy. Facing Chandigarh in the second-round fixture, Shaw tore into the bowling attack to record the second-fastest double hundred ever in the Elite Group of the tournament’s history.
This is now the third-fastest First-Class double ton by an Indian, only behind Ravi Shastri (123 balls vs Baroda in 1985) and Tanmay Agarwal (119 balls vs Arunachal Pradesh in 2024). This was Shaw’s first Ranji hundred for Maharashtra. He reached the three-figure mark in just 72 balls, marking his 14th First-Class hundred. In the first innings, he had scored eight off nine balls.
Prithvi Shaw's history with Mumbai cricket
The right-hander has been grinded his way to the top from maidaans of Mumbai. However his association with the Mumbai Cricket Association ended previous season following issues with discipline and accusations of unprofessionalism. His switch to Maharashtra, fueled by a desire for a fresh start.
However, Shaw’s Ranji campaign didn’t start ideally he endured a four-ball duck in the opener against Kerala, a match that ended in a draw thanks to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s resistance.
However on Monday, Shaw roared back to form with destructive innings seen in domestic cricket this year, showcasing the flair and aggression that once made him India’s most promising young batting talent.
Currently finding a spot in Team India looks to be a distant dream but Shaw has also sent out a statement of intent with his latest knock. Despite a career derailed by injuries, inconsistent form, and off-field controversies including a recent on-field spat with former Mumbai teammates during a warm-up game, Shaw's latest performance serves as a reminder of his extraordinary ability.
