Prithvi Shaw formally joins Maharashtra

Shaw, who was dropped from Mumbai’s team midway through the last season, had obtained the No Objection Certificate from the Mumbai Cricket Association last week. On Monday, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) welcomed him aboard.

“At this stage of my career, I believe joining the Maharashtra team will help me grow further as a cricketer. I am deeply grateful to the Mumbai Cricket Association for the opportunities and support I have received over the years,” Shaw said in a statement.

“Maharashtra Cricket Association has made remarkable efforts in recent years to enhance cricketing infrastructure across the state…. I am confident that being part of such a progressive setup will positively impact my journey as a cricketer. I’m happy to get the opportunity to play alongside talented players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ankit Bawne, Rahul Tripathi, Rajneesh Gurbani, and Mukesh Choudhary in the Maharashtra team,” added Shaw.

The Hindu understands that MCA officials, including president Rohit Pawar and secretary Kamlesh Pisal, met Shaw at his residence here on Monday. While the understanding with Shaw is for a long-term, the initial arrangement has been agreed for a period of three years.

“We are delighted to welcome a player of Prithvi’s calibre to the Maharashtra team. His inclusion adds tremendous strength to an already talented squad,” Pawar said.

“Shaw’s international and IPL experience will be invaluable, especially for mentoring younger players in the squad. MCA stands firmly behind Prithvi in his new journey, and we wish him the very best for the seasons ahead.”

Eight months after leading India to an Under-19 World Cup triumph, Shaw in October 2018 marked his Test debut with a hundred against the West Indies. Since then, a combination of injuries, form, technical flaws and discipline has resulted in him last featuring in an international match in July 2021.

After being dropped from the Mumbai squad on fitness grounds, Shaw went unsold in the Indian Premier League auction last November.