Prithvi Shaw has made a resounding statement on his comeback trail, silencing critics with a commanding 111 off 141 balls on debut for Maharashtra against Chhattisgarh in the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025. The 25-year-old opener’s innings, laced with 15 boundaries and a six, came at a decisive juncture, rescuing his side from a precarious 86 for four to a more respectable 166 for six. His strike rate of 78.72 underlined the perfect balance between aggression and composure on a testing surface.
This performance is more than just a century—it represents Shaw’s determined career reboot after parting ways with Mumbai following questions around fitness and discipline. His last outing for the state came in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final in December 2024, after which he sought a No Objection Certificate to represent Maharashtra. The move already seems justified, with his new team reaping the rewards of his rediscovered resolve.
Prithvi Shaw battles the conditions on a hostile Chennai surface with stunning ton
What elevated Shaw’s innings above mere numbers was the challenge posed by the Guru Nanak College pitch in Chennai. Chhattisgarh had managed just 252 in their first innings, and Maharashtra, despite a steady opening stand of 71, collapsed to 86 for four in no time. The track offered inconsistent bounce, turn for spinners, and little margin for error—conditions that exposed most batters.
Shaw, however, adapted with maturity. He reached his hundred in 122 balls, mixing controlled strokeplay with his trademark fluency. Every boundary was carefully chosen, every defensive shot measured. His knock reflected the temperament of a player who has endured ups and downs but found a way to recalibrate. On a surface where survival was difficult, Shaw’s fluency stood out, showing both resilience and attacking intent.
A fresh chapter for Shaw beyond Mumbai’s shadow
For Shaw, this century was symbolic as much as statistical. Since his sensational Test debut ton in 2018, he has faced setbacks—sliding out of India’s plans due to poor form, fitness struggles, and off-field concerns. His exclusion from Mumbai’s Ranji squad marked a low point, but also served as the trigger for change.
The decision to join Maharashtra was as much about environment as opportunity. Sharing a dressing room with seasoned campaigners like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ankit Bawne, Shaw sought a reset. His century on debut vindicated the gamble, reaffirming that his flair and skill remain intact. Supported ably by Siddharth Mhatre during his knock, Shaw looked rejuvenated, blending seamlessly into a team eager for a fresh identity.
Also WATCH: Ruturaj Gaikwad surprises fans with a wicket for Maharashtra in Buchi Babu Trophy 2025
Here’s how fans reacted:
Blud is back with bang , PRITHVI SHAW SCORED 111(140) for Maharashtra in Buchi Babu Trophy. pic.twitter.com/8TupFHYItI
— Kumar (@Damagedprouct) August 19, 2025
New beginnings! Prithvi Shaw showcases his talent with a breathtaking century on debut, silencing all critics. It’s a moment to remember! Watch the highlights & witness history in the making! #PrithviShaw #DebutTon #CricketMagic #NewBeginnings: https://t.co/7zjKO58uDN
— jain Sumeet China (coffee with sumeet jain) (@Sumeetmountain) August 19, 2025
PRITHVI SHAW SCORED 111(140) WHEN THE TEAM SCORE IS 166/6
– A Dream Debut for Maharashtra in Buchi Babu Trophy. pic.twitter.com/g5990nrFHi
— Rakesh yadav (@Yadavrakesh63) August 19, 2025
Prithvi Shaw silences critics with stunning century on debut pic.twitter.com/QoQNbiM6VL
— Gags (@CatchOfThe40986) August 19, 2025
HUNDRED FOR PRITHVI SHAW IN BUCHI BABU TROPHY…!!!!
He’s playing first match in this tournament and he smashed an excellent hundred for Maharashtra in Buchi Babu Tournament in tough conditions – Incredible, Prithvi Shaw. pic.twitter.com/1fm1QoE8eH
— Saurabh Shelar (@Saurabh_Shelar_) August 19, 2025
Prithvi Shaw hits splendid Hundred for Maharashtra in Buchi Babu Tournament
-Made 111 off 141 balls pic.twitter.com/n8ohYjDFeV
— Rohit Baliyan (@rohit_balyan) August 19, 2025
HUNDRED FOR PRITHVI SHAW IN BUCHI BABU TROPHY
– On his Debut for Maharashtra, a new Journey & Shaw has made a huge impact on a very tough pitch, it’s time for Shaw 2.0 #BuchiBabuTrophy #PrithviShaw #BCCI #buchibabutournament #AsiaCup #AsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/iNtlHkYRVU
— BihariHoonMai (@RINKUSINGH42465) August 19, 2025
Prithvi Shaw smashed a 122-Ball Century in the Buchi Babu Tournament.#prithvishaw #buchibabutournament pic.twitter.com/5c1tqjqKod
— Harshal Barot (@harshalbarot21) August 19, 2025
Hundred for Prithvi Shaw for Maharashtra in the Buchi Babu Trophy
: TNCA#Cricket #PrithviShaw #BuchiBabuTrophy #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/awDPaYn8MB
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) August 19, 2025
Prithvi Shaw brings fireworks again – a 122-ball hundred in the Buchi Babu Trophy! #PrithviShaw #BuchiBabu pic.twitter.com/nKdjgFSnKw
— BatBallBytes (@armaann_01) August 19, 2025
Also READ: Prithvi Shaw eyes IPL comeback, reveals preferred team
