India batter Prithvi Shaw acknowledged the string of controversies that have surrounded his career in recent years, likening himself to a fictional character Jethalal from popular TV show Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chashmah known for attracting trouble.
Among the many controversies, one of the more serious episodes came in 2023, when he found himself in a public dispute over a selfie with a social media influencer Sapna Gill. The incident led to molestation allegations by Sapna that were widely covered in the media.
Once regarded as India’s next batting prodigy, Prithvi Shaw’s downfall has been shaped as much by off-field distractions as by inconsistent performances. His repeated struggles with fitness and discipline saw him getting dropped from Mumbai’s squads in both the Ranji Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy last season. That prompted Shaw to formally request a No Objection Certificate from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) in order to shift to another state side for the upcoming season.
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Prithvi Shaw Says He's the 'Jethalal' of Cricket
Shaw, while speaking to Dainik Jagran, admitted that his name often gets tangled in controversies, whether of his own making or not. He compared himself to Jethalal, a beloved sitcom character known for constantly landing in trouble.
"One thing I would like to say is that controversies catch me. I am Jethalal of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah," Shaw said as quoted to Dainik Jagran.
Reflecting on his comeback plans, Shaw explained that he has returned to the basics.
"I am on track now. I have gone back to basics now. The hard work I used to do 5 years ago, I think I have started that routine again. I believe in myself. I don't know how many people believe in me or not. But I believe in myself. I know how to get there. That's why I am doing all this," Shaw stated.
The 25-year-old also shared what keeps him going despite doubts, criticism and a fractured career. The answer, he says, lies in a message from his father.
"But one thing that dad has said. Only Prithvi Shaw can bring himself back there. No one else can. So, I have left everything," he added.
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"He Still Believes in Me" - Sachin Tendulkar’s Words Fuel Prithvi Shaw’s Comeback Dream
As Shaw looks to rebuild his career, the quiet support of a childhood mentor keeps him going. He recently crossed paths with Sachin Tendulkar at a practice session in Mumbai. The two spoke briefly, and Tendulkar’s words stuck with him.
"Sachin sir knows about my journey. Arjun and I have been friends since we were 8-9 years old. We’ve played together, grown up together. Sir was also there sometimes. I had a word with him a little while ago too. Hardly 2 months ago. He was practicing at the MIG. And I was there too. I spoke to him then too. When things go awry and you drift away, you need that mentor, who can light a spark into you," Shaw told News24.
"He still believes in me. He said, 'Prithvi, I still believe in you, and I'll continue to do so'. Because he has seen me grow up. Even today, he tells me 'Sahi track pe aa ja, jaise pehle tha' (Come back on the same track as earlier). Everything is possible in the next 13-14 years. So he believes in me and that means a lot," he shared further.
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