Ranji Trophy 2024: Prithvi Shaw slams 159 against Chhattisgarh in second appearance since his injury comeback

In his second professional cricket appearance following a lengthy injury lay-off, Mumbai batter Prithvi Shaw showcased brilliance, scoring a remarkable century against Chhattisgarh in the 2024 Ranji Trophy. The 24-year-old’s innings of 159 runs off 185 balls, including 18 fours and a six, played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s strong start on Day 1 of their sixth match on Friday, February 09, in Raipur. Shaw formed an impressive 244-run partnership with opening partner Bhupen Lalwani, achieved off just 368 balls.

The star India batter accelerated to reach his fifty in just 43 balls but took more time to achieve his century, doing so in 102 balls. Subsequently, it took him an additional 67 balls to surpass the 150-run mark. This century marked Shaw’s 13th in First Class cricket, adding to his previous century in Test cricket. In his comeback game against Bengal, Shaw made a promising start, scoring 35 runs off 42 balls. However, he couldn’t capitalize on it and missed out on converting it into a substantial score.

Additionally, the Maharashtra born batter didn’t have an opportunity to bat in the second innings as Mumbai secured victory by an innings and four runs. Remarkably, Shaw had been sidelined by a knee injury sustained while representing Northamptonshire in the One Day Cup in August 2023. This led to him undergoing surgery in London, followed by a three-month rehabilitation period. Recently, the 24-year-old received clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru after successfully passing a fitness test.

Shaw was in prime form prior to injury in One Day Cup 2023

During his injury period, he was absent from significant domestic tournaments including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023, Vijay Hazare Trophy 2023, and the first half of the current Ranji Trophy 2024 season. Prior to his injury, Shaw was enjoying exceptional form in the One Day Cup 2023, emerging as the top run-scorer for his team with 429 runs in four innings, boasting an impressive average of 143 and an outstanding strike rate of 152.66, including two centuries.

Having featured for India in all three cricket formats, Shaw represents Mumbai in domestic competitions and has been associated with the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite his youth, Shaw has compiled impressive statistics in First-Class cricket, accumulating over 3,997 runs in 46 matches, boasting an average exceeding 50. This includes 13 centuries and 16 half-centuries.