IND vs SA: Prithvi Shaw Opens Up On South Africa ODI Series Snub, Says “Doing A Lot Of Hard Work, But Not Getting A Chance”

Dynamic India National Cricket Team opener Prithvi Shaw opened up on being snubbed for the ongoing ODI series against South Africa National Cricket Team and asserted that he is not getting a chance despite working very hard and scoring runs in the domestic circuit and the Indian Premier League (IPL).

On Sunday, October 2, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India’s second-string squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. Shikhar Dhawan was named as skipper of the side and many youngsters were included in the team.

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However, there was no Prithvi Shaw in the squad, which came as a surprise to many. Also, several cricket fans and pundits took to Twitter to express their disappointment over the non-selection of explosive opener Shaw.

In an interview with Mid-Day, Shaw said that he is very disappointed not to be a part of India’s second-string ODI squad. He added that his entire focus is on maintaining a good fitness level and performing well whenever the opportunity comes.

“I was disappointed. I am scoring runs, doing a lot of hard work, but not getting a chance,” Shaw said.

“But, it’s alright. When they [national selectors] feel I am ready, they will play me. Whatever opportunities I get, whether it is for India ‘A’ or other teams, I will make sure I do my best and keep my fitness levels up to the mark,” he further said.

Meanwhile, South Africa defeated India in the first ODI in Lucknow and the next two games of the series are scheduled to be played in Ranchi and Delhi on October 9 and October 11.

I spent a lot of time in the gym, did a lot of running, didn’t consume any sweets and cold drinks – Prithvi Shaw

Explosive opener Shaw, who has played 6 ODIs, 5 Tests and 1 T20I for the India National Cricket Team, said that he has worked a lot on his fitness and lost 7-8kg weight since the last IPL.

“I did not work on different things in my batting but did a lot of fitness work. I worked on weight-loss and reduced by seven to eight kgs after the last IPL. I spent a lot of time in the gym, did a lot of running, didn’t consume any sweets and cold drinks. Chinese food is totally out of my menu now,” said the young opener.

The 22-year-old, who will next be seen in action in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, further talked about his team and said:

“We played a few practice games here [in Ahmedabad]. All players are in good shape. We have good all-rounders, batsmen and bowlers. I believe it’s a very strong team. All the support staff members are working hard on our preparation and I am optimistic of doing well as a team. All the players in this team are established somewhere, played a good level and are experienced.”

Also Read: IND vs SA: Deepak Chahar To Miss ODI Series Against South Africa After Sustaining Twisted Ankle – Reports

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