I am scoring runs, doing a lot of hard work, but not getting a chance: Prithvi Shaw

India is currently playing a second-string lineup in the ODI series against a full-strength South Africa owing to the unavailability of numerous members of the main side. Alongside skipper Shikhar Dhawan, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, and Rajat Patidar are among the squad's key batsmen, whereas the bowling lineup is completed by Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Deepak Chahar, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravi Bishnoi.

One prominent player, Prithvi Shaw, was strangely absent from the team for the three-match ODI series. The opening batsman had a strong campaign for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy last edition as well as for India 'A' in the recent one-day series against New Zealand 'A,' scoring an important 77 in his final outing for the team. After a successful domestic campaign, Shaw expressed disappointment at not being chosen by the selectors.

“I was disappointed. I am scoring runs, doing a lot of hard work, but not getting a chance. But, it's alright. When they [national selectors] feel I am ready, they will play me. Whatever opportunities I get, whether it is for India ‘A’ or other teams, I will make sure I do my best and keep my fitness levels up to the mark,” Shaw told Mid-Day.

I worked on weight loss and reduced seven to eight kgs after the last IPL: Shaw

Once hailed as the next big thing in Indian cricket, He quickly secured an IPL deal after helping India win the U-19 World Cup, and was then selected for the Indian senior team. Shaw has not been a constant member of the team due to his patchy performances and injuries, but he has kept working hard on himself. 

“I did not work on different things in my batting but did a lot of fitness work. I worked on weight loss and reduced seven to eight kgs after the last IPL. I spent a lot of time in the gym, did a lot of running, and didn't consume any sweets or cold drinks. Chinese food is totally out of my menu now,” Shaw added.

Shaw will be seen at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy next which is set to begin next week, from October 11.