Reports: Prithvi Shaw's return to Ranji Trophy 2024 unlikely

In a cricketing tale that's been unfolding since August last year, Indian batter Prithvi Shaw's return to competitive action seems to be a distant prospect. The 24-year-old, absent from the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, had sparked hopes of a comeback in the ongoing Ranji Trophy.

However, though Shaw has resumed batting at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), the green light for his return is still pending. According to a source closely associated with the cricketer, Prithvi Shaw has been at the NCA for months, diligently following rehab protocols.

“Prithvi Shaw has been in the NCA for months now, doing rehab and following all the necessary recovery protocols. It is safe to say that he is batting normally in the nets but is still a bit far from getting clearance to play competitive cricket again. As of now, it looks very unlikely that he will play in the Ranji Trophy,” said a source close to the cricketer, as quoted by News 18.

The source emphasised that it's improbable for the NCA to grant clearance for Prithvi Shaw to directly participate in the Ranji Trophy. The cautious approach aims to prevent any potential breakdown after his extensive rehabilitation. The plan is to reintroduce Shaw in a shorter format, allowing sufficient time for the body to undergo match simulations and rigorous drills.

"It is highly unlikely that NCA will give clearance to play Ranji Trophy directly. No one wants him to have a breakdown after such a long rehab programme so it’s a rather safe approach to have him back in a shorter format. By then there will be enough time to put the body through match simulations and other high-intensity drills," the source added.

Mumbai, Shaw's domestic team, find themselves in a waiting game. Raju Kulkarni, chairman of the men's senior selection committee, emphasises the need to adhere to the standard procedure for a player returning from a prolonged injury hiatus. 

As cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the dynamic batter's return, the saga continues, with Mumbai fans keeping their fingers crossed for the eventual clearance that will bring Prithvi Shaw back to the cricketing arena.