Once a dependable opener for the Delhi Capitals, Prithvi Shaw is now facing an uncertain future with the franchise as his extended poor run has raised questions about his place in the team. Shaw’s struggles were evident in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, where he managed only 198 runs in eight matches before being dropped for Abhishek Porel. Porel, who was promoted from the middle order, has impressed as an opener, scoring two half-centuries and a blistering 36, solidifying his position in the team. Assistant coach Pravin Amre justified Shaw’s omission, emphasizing the need for players to perform consistently to retain their place in the Playing XI. He highlighted Porel’s scintillating form as the reason behind Shaw’s exclusion.
Shaw’s struggles have opened the door for Porel, who has seized the opportunity with both hands. Batting alongside Jake Fraser-McGurk, Porel has provided explosive starts for the Delhi Capitals, setting the base for match-winning totals. Their half-century partnership against the Rajasthan Royals and Porel’s 58 off 33 against the Lucknow Super Giants are testaments to their potential as a reliable opening pair. With Porel and Fraser-McGurk impressing, the Delhi Capitals may have found a long-term solution at the top of the order.
Shaw’s extended poor form is not a new concern. Last season, he was dropped after scoring just 106 runs in eight matches before a bout of typhoid cut short his campaign. In the 2024 season, his only two notable knocks were 43 against the Chennai Super Kings and 66 against the Mumbai Indians. Despite his struggles, Shaw remains a talented player with the potential to turn things around. However, the current situation indicates that his time with the Delhi Capitals may be drawing to a close unless he can rediscover his form and regain the trust of the coaching staff.
