Prithvi Shaw's Redemption: Tendulkar's Enduring Belief Fuels Comeback Bid

Once heralded as the future of Indian cricket, Prithvi Shaw experienced a meteoric rise followed by a challenging period of setbacks. From breaking records at 15 to captaining India to an Under-19 World Cup victory and scoring a century on his Test debut at 18, Shaw's early career was filled with promise.

Sachin Tendulkar offering guidance to a young Prithvi Shaw.

However, the sudden success brought distractions. Shaw himself acknowledges a loss of focus, attributing it to negative influences, poor choices, and a decline in discipline. This led to missed practice sessions and misplaced priorities, resulting in his removal from the Mumbai Ranji team and going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction.

During this difficult time, Sachin Tendulkar, a legendary figure in cricket, remained a steadfast source of support. Tendulkar, who had observed Shaw's development alongside his son Arjun, stood by him when others wavered.

"Sachin Sir knows about my journey," Shaw revealed in an interview with News24. "Arjun and I have been friends since we were 8-9 years old. We've played together, grown up together. Sir was also there sometimes. I had a word with him a little while ago too. Hardly 2 months ago. He was practicing at the MIG. And I was there too. I spoke to him then too."

Tendulkar's advice served as a beacon of hope for the young cricketer. "When things go awry and you drift away, you need that mentor, who can light a spark into you," Shaw explained. "He still believes in me. He said, 'Prithvi, I still believe in you, and I'll continue to do so.' Because he has seen me grow up. Even today, he tells me 'Sahi track pe aa ja, jaise pehle tha' (Come back on the same track as earlier). Everything is possible in the next 13-14 years. So he believes in me and that means a lot."

Now at 25, Shaw is determined to revitalize his career. He has made the decision to leave Mumbai cricket and join Maharashtra, seeking a fresh start. Acknowledging his past mistakes, Shaw is committed to working hard and rebuilding his career.

Whether this marks the beginning of a successful comeback remains to be seen. However, Shaw is confronting his challenges head-on with the unwavering support of figures like Sachin Tendulkar, providing him with a genuine opportunity for redemption.