In a recent candid statement, Shreyas Iyer, India’s middle-order batsman, addressed the challenges facing his younger teammate, Prithvi Shaw. Iyer emphasized that the onus is now on Shaw himself to improve his work ethics and figure out the direction for his career. Reflecting on Shaw’s immense talent, Iyer mentioned, “He needs to figure out things for himself. We can’t babysit anyone, right?” This direct comment sheds light on the need for Shaw to take full responsibility for his development both on and off the field.
Shaw, known for his explosive batting and natural flair, has struggled with consistency in his performances, especially in recent times. Despite possessing immense talent, his inability to make the most of his opportunities at the highest level has been a subject of concern. Iyer’s remarks suggest that, while Shaw has the raw skills to succeed, it is his work ethics that need to be aligned with the demands of international cricket.
In a high-performance sport like cricket, raw talent alone is rarely enough to secure a sustained career. Iyer, who has been one of India’s most dependable middle-order batsmen in recent years, knows that success at the international level is as much about mental discipline and consistency as it is about physical talent. “The amount of talent he possesses, no one has it. It’s just that he needs to improve his work ethics,” Iyer added. This underscores the importance of Shaw’s attitude toward training, fitness, and preparation.
Shaw’s recent performances have been inconsistent, which has raised questions about his commitment and discipline. For example, his batting average in the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy dropped significantly, accumulating just 96 runs in 5 innings. His struggles with consistency, coupled with fitness issues, have affected his position in the national selection plans. Iyer’s comments suggest that Shaw needs to reflect on his habits and develop a more structured approach to his game.
Iyer’s advice is a wake-up call for Shaw to take ownership of his career. The 24-year-old has the potential to become a match-winner for India, but only if he channels his energy into improving the areas that hold him back. The message is clear: talent is not enough without the right attitude, discipline, and work ethic.