Prithvi Shaw joins Maharashtra ahead of 2025-26 season

Prithvi Shaw has formally joined Maharashtra in a bid to revive his cricketing journey.

Shaw, who was unceremoniously dropped from Mumbai’s team midway through last season, had obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Mumbai Cricket Association last week. On Monday, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) confirmed his addition to the squad through an official statement.

“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.”

Sportstar understands that MCA officials, including president Rohit Pawar and secretary Kamlesh Pisal, met Shaw at his residence in Mumbai on Monday. While the move is intended as a long-term association, the initial agreement is for a three-year period.

“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.”

Just eight months after leading India to an Under-19 World Cup title, Shaw made a stunning Test debut in October 2018, scoring a century against West Indies. However, a mix of injuries, form issues, technical flaws, and disciplinary setbacks has since derailed his progress. His last international appearance came in July 2021. After being dropped from the Mumbai squad on fitness grounds, Shaw also went unsold in the Indian Premier League auction last November.