After the Mumbai Ranji team omission, Prithvi Shaw begins to work on his fitness

Prithvi Shaw trains at the MCA ground in BKC. Pic/Atul Kamble

Mumbai's promising opener Prithvi Shaw, 24, who lost his place in the Ranji Trophy squad after the Maharashtra game last month, looked determined to get his fitness back.

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When Mumbai were fielding against Odisha in the afternoon session in their Elite Group ‘A' Ranji Trophy match on Day Two at MCA-BKC ground on Thursday, Shaw was seen utilising his time by running on a track near the ground. He spent over half an hour doing sprints and running drills under the observation of Mumbai Cricket Association's trainer Amogh Pandit.

He was even seen acknowledging Mumbai players who were fielding near the boundary ropes. The Sanjay Patil-led selection committee left Shaw out of the 16-member team picked for their third league match against Tripura.

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As quoted by Times of India (TOI), Greg Chappell wrote a letter to Prithvi Shaw by saying the Mumbai's squad snub could become Shaw career's turning point.

"Hi Prithvi, I understand you're facing a challenging time right now, being out of the Mumbai team. It;s natural to feel frustrated and perhaps a bit uncertain, but I want you to know that these moments are often the turning points for athletes, helping to shape both their careers and their character. I remember watching you play for India;s under-19 team, where you showcased an extraordinary talent and a spark that made it clear you were among the most exciting young cricketers of your time. Those of us who recognize your potential are still kneely watching your journey, knowing that the best is yet to come", Greg Chappell wrote in a letter to Prithvi Shaw.

"Remember, setbacks are a part of every great athlete's story Even legends like Don Bradman experienced being dropped and having to fight their way back. What made them great was not avoiding challenges, but how they responded to them. In my own career, being dropped was one of the most humbling yet valuable experiences. It forced me to review every aspect of my game and, more importantly, my approach. I learned that my attitude, resilience, and willingness to improve mattered more than raw talent alone. I realized that I often got myself out by letting distractions or self-doubt interfere, and that wasn't going to change unless I took full responsibility", Chappell wrote in his letter.

"So I made a commitment to myself. I'd focus on one ball at a time, really seeing each delivery and responding in the moment. I trained not just for skill, but to strengthen my mindset, learning to judge my practice sessions by how well I stayed present and focused on each ball. That shift from results-focused to process-focused transformed my approach to both practice and games. I encourage you to take a similar journey of self-reflection. It's easy to blame circumstances, but ultimately, your response to these challenges will define your path. Elite athletes know that discipline and sacrifice are essential. It's about honing not just your physical game, but your lifestyle, from diet to fitness, with the understanding that the pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret," Greg Chappell wrote.

"The past doesn't define you. Prithvi. It's what you do from here that matters. You're still in your prime, with so many years ahead to make your mark. Take this time to visualize the cricketer and person you want to become. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to improve.

"Take care of your body, get the right amount of rest, and build the strength and focus you need. The door back to the Indian team is open if you're willing to walk through it, but it takes a commitment to growth and change," the former Australian added in the letter.

"Know that I and many others believe in you and are here to support your journey back to the top. If there's ever a way I can help or if you have questions, don't hesitate to reach out. You have everything within you to reach your full potential. Wishing you all the best on this journey. Regards, Greg".