Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said Delhi Capitals should go with Prithvi Shaw at number one but give him clarity on the role. Shaw is back in the Delhi fold after a year away from the IPL where he re-emerged, found form in the domestic circuit and was finally bought for his base price.
Shaw scored 537 runs in seven matches in his first season for Maharashtra in the Ranji Trophy and then carried the form into the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 25-year-old has scored 183 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of just over 160.
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Delhi are looking for stability at the top of the s KL Rahul takes one slot as opener. As for the latter, there are still three main contenders to play after Ben Duckett’s withdrawal. Pathum Nissanka, Abishek Porel and Shaw will find themselves in a three-way battle for second place.
Pathan said on his YouTube channel that while the option of Porel can be explored, Shaw should be given the role.
“They have the option of Abhishek Porel who has played really well whenever he got chances. He has contributed with quick 20s and 30s so far. But I think they should go with Prithvi Shaw and make him clear about his role,” said Pathan.
‘SHAW WILL HAVE SOMETHING TO PROVE’
Pathan said Shaw will come with a point to prove in IPL 2026 after going unsold in the auction last year.
“They got him at a very good price. In domestic cricket, he joined Maharashtra from Mumbai. He was Maharashtra’s top run-scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Yes, he didn’t score in the Vijay Hazare Trophy but he seems to be in good form. I think those hungry players who came with an unissued point last year will prove Shaw.” Pathan.
Shaw has scored 1892 runs in 79 matches in his IPL career since his debut in 2018 for DC.
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Published on:
27 March 2026 17:50 IST
