How Prithvi Shaw’s Double Century Affects His Chances of Rejoining the Indian National Cricket Team

The recent double century by Prithvi Shaw has certainly stirred up some debate among fans and analysts alike. However, the question remains - will it be enough to secure his return to the Indian national cricket team? While the score is undoubtedly impressive, several factors suggest that his immediate comeback is unlikely.

Impressive but Insufficient

Edging towards a return to the team after such a long absence, Prithvi Shaw scored an impressive double century. While this wasn’t his first century, the fact that he managed such a score in a high-pressure format is commendable. However, it’s important to note that the quality of opposition isn’t always the most significant factor. Despite the relatively less challenging bowling attack in the English county cricket format, the pressure to perform consistently is immense. Bowlers like Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, and other players continuing to perform well pose a significant challenge.

Overlooked in Ranji Trophy

One of the main reasons why Prithvi Shaw’s chances of making a return to the national team remain slim is his performance in the Ranji Trophy. The Ranji Trophy is a crucial platform for players to showcase their skills and is often a determining factor in team selection. Since Shah’s performance in this format has not been outstanding in recent times, it raises questions about his capabilities when the pressure is at its peak.

Physical Fitness - The Major Hurdle

A significant issue for Prithvi Shaw is his overall fitness. At 23 years old, he looks like he’s in his 40s, which is a stark reminder of the physical toll on his body. Prithvi is known for his larger frame and a lack of fitness, contrasting with players like Rohit Sharma who have improved their physical conditioning over the years. This is a crucial aspect that can’t be overlooked. Rohit Sharma, who was once lauded as the future of Indian cricket, himself has had to work hard to get back into shape after a few years of weight gain.

It’s no secret that fitness is a significant factor in the selection process for the Indian team. Prithvi Shaw’s excessive belly and lack of conditioning make it challenging for selectors to consider him. It’s noteworthy that Rohit Sharma, who has understood the importance of fitness, is now working diligently to maintain his physique. For Prithvi, who is still in his mid-20s, there’s no excuse for not getting in better shape. Improvement in this area is essential for him to even have a chance of making a comeback.

Competition from Other Players

The Indian national team has a plethora of talented players vying for positions, particularly in the opening batting slot. Players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, and Rohit Sharma, among others, are performing exceptionally well. Even Ishan Kishan, who has also shown his mettle in recent times, poses a significant threat. Prithvi has to not only match but also excel in multiple areas to compete with these players. Simply being a top run-scorer isn’t enough; excelling in fielding, wicket-keeping, and fitness are equally important.

Conclusion

While there have been some optics that Prithvi Shaw’s double century must mean a return to the national team, it’s not as straightforward. He needs to address his fitness issues, work on his fielding, and demonstrate consistent performance across multiple formats of the game. The road to the Indian national team is often harder than scoring a double century; it requires a combination of skills and physical readiness. Whether Prithvi Shaw can overcome these challenges and earn a spot remains to be seen as of now.