Prithvi Shaw has been appointed as the captain of the Maharashtra state team for the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), stepping in for Ruturaj Gaikwad, who will be unavailable for the initial phase of the tournament. This announcement comes as Shaw, who moved from Mumbai to Maharashtra ahead of the current domestic season, takes on a leadership role for the team during the league stage of the SMAT 2025.
Shaw’s Transition to Maharashtra and His Leadership Role
Prithvi Shaw, who sought and obtained a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from Mumbai to join Maharashtra in mid-2025, has been looking for a fresh start and more opportunities to showcase his talent. His decision to move to Maharashtra was seen as a strategic one, aimed at revitalizing the team’s batting lineup and providing new leadership options. Shaw’s presence in the squad brings a wealth of experience, not only from his domestic cricket career with Mumbai but also from his time leading India in the 2018 Under-19 World Cup.
Gaikwad to Join the Team Later in the Tournament
Ruturaj Gaikwad, who was initially named the captain for the entire Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, will still be a part of the squad but will hand over the captaincy to Shaw for the league phase. Gaikwad’s absence during the initial part of the tournament is due to other commitments, but he will join the team once the league stage concludes. This decision allows Maharashtra to manage their resources effectively, ensuring they get the best out of both captains during different phases of the competition.
As Shaw takes on the responsibility for the first time in a long-term leadership role, he will look to guide Maharashtra’s squad, which blends emerging young talent with seasoned players. Shaw’s leadership experience, combined with his aggressive playing style, makes him an ideal candidate to help the team perform well in the competition. His appointment as captain highlights the confidence Maharashtra’s cricket association has in his ability to lead the team, setting the stage for an exciting Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26 campaign.
