Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw has formally requested a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), signaling his intent to move to another state association for the upcoming domestic season. This move comes after a challenging period for the young opener, marked by fitness concerns and fluctuating form that saw him dropped from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad last season.
Shaw, a prodigious talent who captained India to the 2018 U19 World Cup title and famously scored a century on his Test debut, has faced a difficult few years. While he has shown glimpses of his immense potential, consistent performances and fitness issues have hampered his progress, leading to his exclusion from various Mumbai squads.
In his letter to the MCA, the 25-year-old expressed gratitude for the opportunities and support he received from the Mumbai setup, where he made his debut in 2017. However, he stated that he has been presented with a “promising opportunity” to play professional cricket under another State Association, which he believes will “further contribute to his growth and development as a cricketer.”
The decision to seek an NOC is seen by many as a strategic move by Shaw to revive his career. Mumbai, a powerhouse in domestic cricket, boasts a highly competitive environment, and a change of scenery could provide Shaw with more consistent playing opportunities and a fresh perspective. While the exact state he intends to join remains undisclosed, speculation is rife that he might be headed to neighboring Maharashtra.
Shaw’s struggles with fitness and discipline have been a recurring theme. Last year, he was reportedly dropped from the Ranji Trophy squad due to poor fitness, with selectors citing high body fat percentage. While he made a return for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he was subsequently overlooked for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Even Mumbai captain Shreyas Iyer had previously remarked on Shaw’s need to get his “work ethics right.”
This move is not unprecedented in Indian domestic cricket, with several players, including Yashasvi Jaiswal (who later returned to Mumbai), Arjun Tendulkar, and Sarfaraz Khan, having previously switched states in pursuit of better opportunities and career revival.
The MCA has confirmed receiving Shaw’s request and, after due consideration, has granted the NOC. MCA Secretary Abhay Hadap acknowledged Shaw’s contributions to Mumbai cricket and wished him well for his future endeavors.
As Prithvi Shaw embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on his performances in the upcoming domestic season. A change of environment and a renewed focus could be exactly what the talented but embattled cricketer needs to rediscover his best form and once again push for a return to the national team.
