Prithvi Shaw Should Learn From Kane Williamson: VVS Laxman

Prithvi Shaw, who was preferred over Shubman Gill in the first Test against New Zealand, came under severe scrutiny after his technical glitches were exposed. Test great VVS Laxman believes Shaw should take a leaf out of Kane Williamson’s book as he has perfectly displayed how to bat in New Zealand.

Prithvi Shaw will be better off playing straight: VVS Laxman

Shaw likes to hit his shots to the on-side. His technical shortfalls were exposed by New Zealand fast bowlers Tim Southee and Trent Boult, with the youngster having no answer to their short balls, in particular.

Laxman advised Shaw to play straight when the ball is moving. He also said, the Mumbai batsman should understand the conditions, and should not compromise on his natural flair.

“He (Prithvi Shaw) loves hitting the ball to the on side, but when the ball is moving around, he will be better off playing straight and getting the measure of the conditions without compromising on natural flair. Maybe he can take a leaf out of Kane Williamson’s book. The captain came up with another stunner, an example on how to bat in New Zealand, by playing the ball right under the eyes and close to the body,” Laxman wrote in his column for TOI.

Prithvi Shaw can also learn from Mayank Agarwal: VVS Laxman

Mayank Agarwal has grown as a Test cricketer right from the word go and cemented his place in the squad. Laxman believes Shaw can learn from Agarwal as he has shown a lot of maturity while playing in New Zealand.

“He can also look at his partner Mayank Agarwal, who came into the game with little form, but showed his maturity by batting with poise and application,” Laxman wrote.

Shaw, however, is doubtful for the final Test in Christchurch as he missed the training due to a swollen foot. In his absence, Gill is likely to replace him and open along side Agarwal.