A warm-up match between Maharashtra and Mumbai ahead of the Ranji Trophy season took an unexpected turn when Prithvi Shaw, now representing Maharashtra, was involved in a heated confrontation with his former Mumbai teammate, Musheer Khan. The incident occurred during the three-day practice match at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.
Shaw, who had moved from Mumbai to Maharashtra in search of a fresh start, showcased his batting prowess by scoring a blistering 181 off 220 balls against his former side. His innings included 21 fours and three sixes. He formed a formidable 305-run opening partnership with Arshin Kulkarni, who also scored 186.
However, the impressive performance was overshadowed by a heated exchange following Shaw's dismissal. According to reports, the tension arose after Shaw attempted a slog sweep off Musheer Khan and was caught at deep fine leg. Sources indicate that Musheer allegedly sledged Shaw after taking his wicket, reportedly saying "Thank you". This send-off apparently didn't sit well with Shaw.
Cricbuzz reported that Shaw reacted angrily, allegedly attempting to grab Musheer's collar and swinging his bat at the bowler. Other reports suggest that verbal taunts from Mumbai players, his former teammates, directed at Shaw as he walked back to the pavilion further fueled the confrontation. Witnesses stated that Shaw retaliated with harsh words before advancing towards Musheer in anger, raising his bat. Umpires and players from both teams intervened to calm the situation. Furthermore, it's been reported that Shaw also exchanged words with Siddhesh Lad, another former Mumbai teammate, as he walked back to the dressing room.
Maharashtra captain Ankit Bawne downplayed the incident, stating, "It's a practice match. They are all former teammates. Such things happen, and it's all okay now, and there is no issue". Both the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) and the Maharashtra Cricket Association have remained silent on the matter, referring to it as a heat-of-the-moment episode between competitive players.
This incident has once again brought Shaw's disciplinary record under scrutiny. Once considered one of India's brightest batting talents after winning the Under-19 World Cup in 2018, Shaw's career has been plagued by controversies and inconsistent form. He has played five Tests, six ODIs, and one T20I for India but has not been a regular in the national team. In 2019, he was suspended for eight months for a doping violation.
Shaw's move to Maharashtra is seen as an attempt to revive his domestic career after losing his place in the Mumbai squad last season.
