Prithvi Shaw's century on Maharashtra debut signals comeback bid

Prithvi Shaw marked his Maharashtra debut with a stylish century against Chhattisgarh in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament, signaling a bold bid to revive a career that has faced disciplinary and fitness concerns in recent seasons. The 25-year-old opener, who moved from Mumbai ahead of the season, struck 111 off 141 balls on a difficult Chennai surface, guiding Maharashtra to a competitive 217 after they were 71 without loss but later collapsed to 86 for four. Shaw’s composed 122-ball century included 14 fours and a single six, and he celebrated with a quiet acknowledgment to his partner as he stood tall in the middle.

Shaw’s innings came as Maharashtra attempted to steady themselves after a cautious start, with Chhattisgarh having posted 252 on the opening day. After an opening stand of 71 with Sachin Dhas, Maharashtra found themselves in trouble as they slipped to 86 for four, with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad departing cheaply for one. Shaw then anchored the innings, contributing more than three-quarters of the team’s runs in the early stages and sharing a 57-run fifth-wicket stand with Siddharth Mhatre to steady the ship. His hundred, achieved with a single, underscored the...