Legendary Australian cricketer and former India coach Greg Chappell has written to Prithvi Shaw, urging him to move past recent setbacks and rekindle his determination to play for India.
Chappell offered Shaw his support and encouraged the 24-year-old Mumbai batter to reach out if he needed assistance. The letter from Chappell followed Shaw’s exclusion from the Mumbai squad after two rounds of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season.
Greg Chappell cited the examples of the legendary Don Bradman and himself to emphasise that the hurting feeling of being dropped can be directed towards reviving careers, provided the player is willing to put in the hard work.
Shaw’s career took a downturn when his domestic team, after underwhelming performances in the opening rounds of the premier domestic red-ball tournament. Officials in Mumbai cricket cited fitness and disciplinary issues as the reasons for omitting the once prodigiously talented player at the start of the new season.
“The past doesn’t define you, Prithvi. It’s what you do from here that matters. You’re still in your prime, with so many years ahead to make your mark. Take this time to visualise the cricketer and person you want to become. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to improve,” Chappell wrote in a letter, as quoted by the *Times of India*.
The former India head coach remarked that he, like many others, was impressed when Shaw burst onto the scene with his exceptional ability to score big as a teenager.
Shaw made a dazzling entry into Test cricket with a debut century against the West Indies in 2018 at just 18 years old, following impressive performances at the Under-19 level. His strong start pointed to a bright future, with many predicting he would become a mainstay in the Indian national team. His performances in domestic cricket were similarly impressive.
However, despite these early achievements, set for him. Hampered by fitness and disciplinary challenges, he has fallen off the radar, with his last Test appearance in 2020 and his last limited-overs match for India in July 2021.
‘SETBACKS DON’T DEFINE YOU’
Chappell encouraged Shaw, reminding him that elite athletes are defined not by their setbacks but by their response to them and their ability to bounce back.
“Remember, setbacks are a part of every great athlete’s story. Even legends like Don Bradman faced the disappointment of being dropped and had to fight their way back. What made them great was not avoiding challenges, but how they responded to them.”
“That shift – from results-focused to process-focused – transformed my approach to both practice and matches. I encourage you to embark on a similar journey of self-reflection. It’s easy to blame circumstances, but ultimately, your response to these challenges will define your path. Elite athletes know that discipline and sacrifice are essential. It’s about honing not just your physical game, but your lifestyle – from diet to fitness – with the understanding that the pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret,” he added.
Prithvi Shaw played a crucial role for Mumbai last season, amassing 451 runs across nine innings, with an average of 83.52 and a strike rate of 58.5. He even scored a vital fifty in the Irani Cup match for Mumbai against the Rest of India.
In a heartfelt note, Chappell reminded Shaw that many are rooting for his comeback and are ready to support him if needed.
“Take care of your body, get the right amount of rest, and build the strength and focus you need. The door back to the Indian team is open if you’re willing to walk through it, but it requires a commitment to growth and change. Know that I – and many others – believe in you and are here to support your journey back to the top. If there’s ever a way I can help or if you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. You have everything within you to reach your full potential. Wishing you all the best on this journey. Regards, Greg,” he added.
