Prithvi Shaw Makes a Statement with Blistering 23-Ball Fifty in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction

Kolkata, November 28, 2025 – Just to remind everyone, he can still smash it. Indian opener Prithvi Shaw, who hasn't been in great form, blasted a quickfire fifty for Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) this Friday. This powerful hitting comes at a good time, just before the IPL 2026 auction, letting teams know he's ready to go big.

Shaw led Mumbai's chase against Hyderabad and was hammering the ball from the start. He got to his half-century in just 23 balls and ended up with an incredible 66 runs from only 36 balls. He hit seven fours and four huge sixes, showing how he can really take over during the first few overs.

A Crucial Knock at the Right Time

This performance is particularly significant for Shaw, whose career has seen significant ups and downs in recent years. Once touted as the next big thing in Indian cricket, a combination of form issues, fitness concerns, and off-field controversies has seen him fall in the pecking order for the national team.

His recent domestic form had been patchy, and there were questions about his standing ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. However, this blistering knock on a national stage like the SMAT will undoubtedly grab the attention of team scouts and management. In a format where a quick start is paramount, Shaw's ability to take the game away from the opposition in a matter of overs remains a rare and valuable commodity.

Match Context: Shaw and Mhatre Power Mumbai

Chasing Hyderabad's competitive total of 193, Mumbai needed a strong start, and Shaw delivered precisely that. He formed a formidable opening partnership with young sensation Ayush Mhatre, who also had a day to remember. While Shaw provided the initial fireworks, Mhatre anchored the innings magnificently, scoring his maiden T20 century with an unbeaten 110 off just 53 balls.

Their combined efforts ensured Mumbai chased down the target comfortably in just 17.5 overs, registering a commanding victory. Shaw's aggressive intent at the top allowed Mhatre to settle in before launching his own attack, highlighting Shaw's value as an impact player who can set the tempo for an innings.

What This Means for the IPL 2026 Auction

With the mega auction around the corner, franchises are actively scouting for Indian batting talent. Shaw, despite his recent struggles, possesses a unique skill set. His high backlift and hand-eye coordination allow him to access areas of the ground that few others can.

This 23-ball fifty serves as a timely reminder that on his day, Prithvi Shaw can be a match-winner of the highest order. While his consistency remains a question mark, his raw talent and ability to destroy bowling attacks in the T20 format will likely make him a sought-after player at the auction table once again. Teams looking for an aggressive opener who can maximise the power-play restrictions will definitely have his name underlined on their lists.