I enjoyed the contest against Ashwin: Prithvi Shaw

Young Mumbai batsman Prithvi Shaw is making giant strides in Indian domestic circuit. Shaw, who is only 17 years old, is racking up tons at will. The opening batsman recently clobbered a brilliant ton in the Ranji Trophy fixture against Tamil Nadu. He is also a part of the India U19 team and had recently turned up for the Board President side in the warm-up games against the touring New Zealand side.

Needless to say, he is ticking all the boxes right at the moment. Currently, he is next to only Sachin Tendulkar in the list of cricketers with most centuries till the age of 18. In a recent conversation with Times of India, Prithvi Shaw spoke about his aspirations and the way ahead. When asked about the reason why he chose to play in the Ranji Trophy and not for the U19 side, he mentioned that the decision had a lot to do with discussions he had with Rahul Dravid.

“I feel when you come from U-19’s to this level you meet more experienced players. So what Rahul (David) Sir decided for me not to play U-19, it must be for my good because he felt I will gain more from playing here,” quoted Prithvi Shaw.

On his ton against Tamil Nadu

Speaking specifically about the century he hit in the recent fixture against Tamil Nadu, Shaw expressed his happiness over the performance. He noted that playing against the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and scoring runs is always pleasing. He also reflected back at the time when Trent Boult had praised him during the warm up fixture.

“I enjoyed the contest against an experienced bowler like Ashwin. There was no special plan. I just wanted to keep it simple and play my natural game. It obviously gives you confidence when you score against a top bowler like Ashwin, who tops the charts. I gained a lot of experience batting against him. He is someone who when handed out any wicket, be it flat, knows what to do,” said the youngster.

“It felt very good to hear Boult praising me. It felt very good to score against his speed. It was very challenging against him. He came up to me and told me ‘keep going’ which felt good,” Shaw quoted.

Breakthrough innings and the India dream

Recalling the knock that shaped his career, Prithvi Shaw mentioned that the knock of 546 that he played for his school team was the breakthrough one. He further noted that he is taking one step at a time and has the ultimate aim of playing for the Indian cricket team.

“I will never forget that record. The knock of 546 was my break through innings. After that, I have been managing these good performances year and after year. I dream of playing for India one day. But I will go step-by-step. Right now, the focus is on Ranji Trophy.  After that, I will look at the under-19 World Cup,” he conceded.