Indian opener Prithvi Shaw has opted to play county cricket in England over participating in the upcoming Deodhar Trophy. Shaw, who last played for India in a T20I against Sri Lanka, has chosen to spend the next 45 days in England, playing for Northamptonshire in the county matches.
The 23-year-old’s decision came after he was selected in the West Zone squad for the zonal 50-over tournament. However, Shaw revealed that he will be heading to the UK instead. Speaking to mid-day, Shaw expressed his excitement about the opportunity to play county cricket, stating that it will be a valuable experience for him. He mentioned that many Indian players, including Ajinkya Rahane, have played at the county level, and he wants to follow in their footsteps.
Shaw’s stint in England will consist of a total of eight matches, including six one-day games and a couple of first-class matches. He emphasized that he will return to India ahead of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which is scheduled to start in October.
As for his current performance, Shaw showcased his skill during the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone, scoring 65 runs for West Zone. His innings played a vital role in their total of 129-7. Shaw described the pitch at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore as challenging, but he adapted his approach accordingly. He spoke about his patience and focus on playing close to his body, hitting only those deliveries that were within his reach. Unfortunately, an upper cut ended his innings prematurely when he failed to spot a fielder at third man.
Shaw’s decision to play county cricket indicates his eagerness to gain valuable exposure and hone his skills further. By choosing to participate in a competitive cricket environment abroad, he hopes to build on his previous experiences and contribute to Indian cricket in the future. With his talent and determination, Shaw is looking to make a mark in county cricket and return to India stronger, ready to take on domestic and international cricket.
This news highlights Shaw’s dedication to improving his game and his ambition to excel at the highest level. His decision to forgo the Deodhar Trophy demonstrates his focus on long-term development and his eagerness to explore new opportunities. As Shaw continues to impress with his performances, fans will eagerly anticipate his return to the Indian cricket scene in the upcoming tournaments.
