Prithvi Shaw is set to make his debut for Maharashtra following his high-profile switch from Mumbai earlier this year. After a couple of challenging seasons, this move offers him a chance to reset and regain form. Shaw’s first assignment with his new side will be the All India Buchi Babu Invitational tournament in Chennai later this month.
Shaw, who had been dropped from Mumbai due to discipline and fitness concerns, is looking for a fresh start. The immensely talented batter has struggled with consistency off the field, and Maharashtra hopes a new environment will help him regain his confidence.
Joining Shaw in the Maharashtra squad is Ruturaj Gaikwad, returning from injury, creating the prospect of a formidable opening duo. However, Gaikwad is expected to feature only in Maharashtra’s opening match before joining West Zone for the Duleep Trophy. Wicketkeeper Saurabh Nawale will travel to Bengaluru for the same tournament, while Ankit Bawne leads Maharashtra, hoping to see renewed intensity from Shaw.
Shaw’s journey has been turbulent—unsold in the 2025 IPL auction and experiencing dips in form and confidence at international, domestic, and franchise levels. Despite a promising start with Delhi Capitals and an early India debut, off-field issues have held him back.
Maharashtra’s group in the Buchi Babu tournament includes Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, and the TNCA President’s XI. Their campaign opens against Chhattisgarh at Gurunanak College, where Shaw aims to make an immediate impact.
Meanwhile, India U-19 captain Ayush Mhatre continues to rise in domestic cricket. Leading Mumbai in this tournament in the absence of senior players like Shreyas Iyer and Ajinkya Rahane, Mhatre will be supported by experienced names such as Sarfaraz Khan and his brother Musheer.