Kolkata: Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, star opener Prithvi Shaw delivered a sensational performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, captaining Maharashtra to a comfortable win over Hyderabad. Shaw smashed a 23-ball fifty, scoring 66 runs and setting the tone for his team’s dominant chase.
Captain’s Explosive Knock
Shaw, who is playing for Maharashtra after remaining unsold in the previous IPL auction, led from the front in his first match as captain. Opening the innings, he struck nine boundaries and three sixes, completing a 50 off just 23 balls. His aggressive start, combined with a 117-run opening partnership with Arshin Kulkarni, made the chase look effortless.
Shaw eventually fell to Rakshet Reddy after a quickfire 66, but his innings had already set Maharashtra on course for victory.
Match Summary
The match, held at Jadavpur University ground, Kolkata, saw Hyderabad post 192 runs in their 20 overs. While all top-eight batswomen reached double figures, none could surpass 35. Hyderabad captain Chama Milind top-scored with 35, and Jalaj Saxena picked up two wickets.
Chasing 193, Maharashtra reached the target with 10 balls to spare, thanks to Shaw’s captaincy and a brilliant 89* off 54 balls by Arshin Kulkarni, along with a finishing cameo of 26 runs off 11 balls from Rahul Tripathi.
Context and Significance
Shaw captained Maharashtra in the absence of regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is with the Indian team for the South Africa ODI series. The performance comes at a crucial time, with franchises closely monitoring the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy ahead of the IPL 2026 auction in December.
This explosive innings underlines Shaw’s return to form and strengthens his case for a commanding presence in the upcoming IPL season.
Discover more from SD NEWS agency
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.