“I was disappointed” – Prithvi Shaw opens up on his Team India snub for ongoing ODI series against South Africa
Prithvi Shaw (Source: Twitter)
With the main squad of the Indian cricket team in Australia for the 20-20 World Cup, the Indian Cricket Board selected a second-string team for the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. Shikhar Dhawan is the leading the side which features youngsters like Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Rajat Patidar etc. However, there was one prominent name that didn’t find a place in the team who is Prithvi Shaw.
The opener was in terrific form as he gave consistent performances for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy last season and also for India ‘A’ in the one-day series against New Zealand ‘A’. He scored an important 77 in his last appearance for the side last month.
Shaw expressed his disappointment over not being selected in the squad. “I was disappointed. I am scoring runs, doing a lot of hard work, but not getting a chance,” the 22-year-old said in an interview with Mid-Day.
“But, it’s alright. When they [national selectors] feel I am ready, they will play me. Whatever opportunities I get, whether it is for India ‘A’ or other teams, I will make sure I do my best and keep my fitness levels up to the mark,” he further said.
Shaw also revealed that he reduced 7-8kg weight since the Indian T20 League earlier this year, and has also worked on his diet.
“I did not work on different things in my batting, but did a lot of fitness work. I worked on weight loss and reduced by seven to eight kgs after the last Indian T20 League. I spent a lot of time in the gym, did a lot of running, didn’t consume any sweets and cold drinks. Chinese food is totally out of my menu now,” said the young opener.
Shaw will next be seen in action in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
“We played a few practice games here [in Ahmedabad]. All players are in good shape. We have good all-rounders, batsmen and bowlers. I believe it’s a very strong team. All the support staff members are working hard on our preparation and I am optimistic of doing well as a team. All the players in this team are established somewhere, played a good level and are experienced,” said Shaw.
