Prithvi Shaw’s poor IPL 2023 performances were recently attributed by Shaun Pollock to the latter’s shorter playing time. Delhi Capitals (DC) has primarily used Shaw as an “impact player”.
The former South African cricketer thinks it’s crucial for batters to stay on the field for a few overs to find their rhythm before coming out to bat. When Delhi is bowling first, Pollock recommended that they keep Shaw in the field for at least five overs.
“I believe Prithvi Shaw is in pain. As you witnessed tonight, Padikkal entered the game for the final five overs after Chahal finished his. Prithvi is motionless. He prepares for his at-bat by sitting in the dugout before donning his protective gear.
You occasionally get the impression that batters ought to participate a little bit more in the game. Attempt to bring him in for a few overs if you are batting second. It appears that he is simply stuck.”
Michael Vaughan brought up during the same conversation that Shaw himself will be disappointed if he is continually asked to sit in the dugout. He suggested that in order to improve his fielding, the opener seek assistance from the head coach Ricky Ponting.
Vaughan said: “If he is the player seated in the dugout, I believe his [Prithvi Shaw’s] pride should be severely wounded. He ought to be desperately practising his fielding with one of the greatest fielders of all time, Ricky Ponting, as a young man.
He ought to be telling Ricky Ponting, “You better make a really good fielder or I’m not going to be sitting in the dugout ” or something to that effect”.
The former England captain explained why he thinks Shaw is happy to be in his position and not fielding:
He doesn’t look at all like the person I imagine knocking on Ricky’s door and expressing his desire to avoid sitting in the dugout, I wager. He is probably exclaiming, “This is great, I’m really enjoying not fielding,” as he sits in the dugout. Having that attitude is not a good idea”.
In the IPL 2023, Shaw’s poor batting performances have drawn criticism from all sides. Only 34 runs have been produced by the right-handed batter in five innings. The opposition is aware going in that his footwork won’t be visible if you play him at a quick pace. He appears to flee to the leg side and exposes those three stumps.
On Thursday, April 20 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi will play host to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming IPL 2023 match.
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