DC should go with Prithvi Shaw at the top, but with role clarity: Ex-IND star
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said that Delhi Capitals should go with Prithvi Shaw at the top of the order, but give him role clarity. Shaw is back in the Delhi fold after a year away from the IPL, where he reinvented himself, found form in the domestic circuit, and was ultimately bought for his base price.
Shaw scored 537 runs in seven matches in his first season for Maharashtra in the Ranji Trophy and then carried the form into Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 25-year-old scored 183 runs in seven matches with a strike-rate just above 160.
Delhi are looking for stability at the top with KL Rahul taking one spot as an opener. When it comes to the second one, it is still up for grabs with three major contenders following the withdrawal of Ben Duckett. Pathum Nissanka, Abishek Porel and Shaw find themselves in a three-way tussle for the second spot.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Pathan said while the option of Porel can be explored, Shaw should be trusted with the role.
“They have the option of Abhishek Porel, who has performed really well whenever he has gotten chances. He has contributed with quick 20s and 30s so far. But I think they should go with Prithvi Shaw and give him clarity about his role,” said Pathan.
‘SHAW WILL HAVE A POINT TO PROVE’
Pathan said that Shaw will come in with a point to prove in IPL 2026 after going unsold last year in the auction.
“They got him at a very good price. He shifted to Maharashtra from Mumbai in domestic cricket. He was the highest run-scorer for Maharashtra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Yes, he didn’t score in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but he seems to be in good form. I think those hungry players who went unsold last year always come with a point to prove. Prithvi Shaw will come to prove a point,” said Pathan.
Shaw has 1892 runs in 79 matches for DC during his IPL career since making his debut in 2018.
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