Irfan Pathan Backs Prithvi Shaw For IPL 2026 Auction Comeback

Irfan Pathan stated that Prithvi Shaw must back his talent with consistent performances.

Former cricketer Irfan Pathan has urged Prithvi Shaw to justify his talent with consistent output. Shaw is among the players listed for the IPL 2026 auction on December 16.

Shaw was unsold in the IPL 2025 auction. He has been shortlisted among 350 players for this year’s event in Abu Dhabi. Irfan Pathan named Shaw as a player who would be a surprise if unsold again.

“I think about Prithvi Shaw. A player like Prithvi Shaw — I feel that the kind of talent he has should be justified through performances. Whenever I watch him, I feel, ‘This is a top-quality player, and he really should be delivering consistent performances,” Irfan said on Star Sports.

Prithvi Shaw’s Recent Domestic Form

Shaw recently captained Maharashtra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025. The team did not qualify for the knockouts. Shaw scored 183 runs in the tournament at a strike rate of 160.52.

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In the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, he has scored 470 runs from seven innings. The 26-year-old has only played for Delhi Capitals in the IPL. His best season was in 2021, where he made 479 runs.

For the 2026 auction, Shaw is listed among capped batters. His base price is set at INR 75 lakh. Franchises needing an aggressive opener may bid for him. Shaw will hope for a return to the IPL after being unsold last year.