Prithvi Shaw, once hailed as the future of Indian cricket, has faced a challenging year with issues related to form, fitness, and consistency. Released by Delhi Capitals after a lackluster IPL 2024, Shaw now finds himself at a crossroads. As the IPL 2025 auction approaches, there is speculation about which teams might take a chance on the explosive opener. Here are three franchises that could benefit from acquiring Shaw:
1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Why KKR needs Shaw:
KKR are coming off a successful IPL 2024 season, where they lifted the trophy with a well-balanced side. However, their top order still remains an area of concern. They have released openers Phil Salt and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, leaving a void at the top. KKR’s retained stars include Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, and Varun Chakaravarthy, but they lack a dynamic top-order batter who can exploit the powerplay.
How Shaw fits in:
Prithvi Shaw’s aggressive style is a perfect match for KKR’s attacking approach. His ability to capitalize on the early pace and bounce at Eden Gardens makes him an ideal candidate. With an impressive IPL strike rate of 147.45 in powerplay overs, Shaw can provide explosive starts, setting the tone for the powerful KKR middle order to take over.
Potential Impact:
The combination of Shaw and a stable partner like Sunil Narine at the top could help KKR continue their aggressive gameplay. With his ability to clear the infield and take on fast bowlers, Shaw could be a game-changer in KKR’s quest to defend their title in 2025.
2. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Why LSG needs Shaw:
The Lucknow Super Giants had a disappointing IPL 2024 season, missing out on a playoff spot due to an inferior net run rate. In a surprising move, they released skipper KL Rahul, along with other key top-order batters like Quinton de Kock and Kyle Mayers. The team has retained a few core players like Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni, but their top-order batting remains thin.
How Shaw fits in:
Shaw could be a perfect fit for LSG as an explosive opener, especially in the absence of established names like Rahul and de Kock. His attacking mindset can help LSG get off to flying starts, allowing the likes of Pooran and Marcus Stoinis to play with more freedom in the middle order. Additionally, Shaw’s aggressive style can help LSG post challenging totals or chase down targets with ease.
Potential Impact:
By adding Shaw, LSG would gain a dynamic option at the top of the order, bringing versatility and aggression. He could be the missing piece in their puzzle, giving the side a strong opening option and potentially turning around their fortunes after a lackluster season.
3. Mumbai Indians (MI)
Why MI needs Shaw:
The Mumbai Indians have struggled with consistency since their last title in 2020, finishing at the bottom of the table in IPL 2024. Although they have retained core players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya, their top-order batting has lacked firepower, particularly in the absence of dependable openers.
How Shaw fits in:
Bringing in Prithvi Shaw could give MI a significant boost at the top of the order. His familiarity with the Wankhede Stadium conditions is a major advantage, as he has played extensively at this venue throughout his domestic career. Shaw’s ability to exploit the true bounce and pace of the Wankhede pitch aligns well with MI’s aggressive batting philosophy. Pairing him with Rohit Sharma could create a formidable opening duo that sets up strong starts consistently.
Potential Impact:
Shaw’s quick scoring in the powerplay could take the pressure off Rohit, allowing him to play a more anchor-like role. With Shaw at the top, MI can optimize their batting depth, giving their middle order more freedom to accelerate in the later overs. His aggressive starts could also help MI avoid early collapses and give their big hitters like Suryakumar and Hardik a platform to launch from.
Conclusion
While Prithvi Shaw’s recent form has been patchy, his potential as an aggressive opener in the IPL remains undeniable. His ability to take on the bowlers in the powerplay is a rare skill that could be the X-factor for any franchise looking to bolster its top order. For KKR, LSG, and MI, Shaw could bring the kind of explosive starts that can set the foundation for big totals and make a significant difference in their IPL 2025 campaigns.
