Prithvi Shaw made a thunderous statement in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 with a blistering double century for Maharashtra against Chandigarh. The right-handed opener, known for his attacking flair, hammered 222 runs off just 156 balls — the second-fastest double hundred in the tournament’s history at the elite level. Shaw’s innings was packed with elegance and dominance, featuring boundaries all around the ground as he dismantled the opposition attack.
His return to domestic cricket was being closely watched, especially after a difficult phase in his career, and this knock once again showcased his immense potential. Having switched from Mumbai to Maharashtra in search of a new beginning, Shaw seemed to have found his rhythm in red-ball cricket.
Controversy Over Player of the Match Award
Despite Shaw’s extraordinary performance, the Player of the Match award surprisingly went to Ruturaj Gaikwad. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star and Maharashtra captain had scored a fine century — 116 runs — in the first innings, which helped set up the team’s strong position in the game. However, many cricket fans and observers felt that Shaw’s double ton was clearly the match-defining effort and deserved recognition.
Social media was quick to react, with fans questioning the logic behind the decision and expressing disappointment that Shaw’s heroic performance went unrewarded. Shaw, who was looking to rebuild his career and confidence, stayed away from commenting publicly on the issue, letting his bat do the talking.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Classy Gesture and Sportsmanship
In a touching display of humility and team spirit, Ruturaj Gaikwad decided to share his Player of the Match award with Prithvi Shaw. The gesture earned widespread praise from cricket fans and pundits, highlighting Gaikwad’s maturity and leadership qualities. It also softened the criticism surrounding the decision and turned the spotlight on the camaraderie within the Maharashtra team. For Shaw, the moment was symbolic — even though the official recognition didn’t come his way, the respect from his captain did.
After going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction and missing out on national selection, Shaw’s double hundred and Gaikwad’s gesture have reignited hope among fans that the talented batter could soon make a strong comeback. This episode not only showcased brilliant cricket but also reminded the world of the sportsmanship that defines the true spirit of the game.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.