Prithvi Shaw’s Maharashtra Debut Ends in Disaster as Kerala Dominate Opening Day of Ranji Trophy 2025/26
Thiruvananthapuram, October 9, 2025 — The 2025/26 Ranji Trophy season began on a grim note for Maharashtra, who collapsed to 5 for 4 within the first four overs against Kerala at the Green Field Stadium on Wednesday. In what turned out to be a nightmare start to their campaign, the side’s top order was dismantled by Kerala’s fiery pace attack, led by MD Nidheesh and Basil NP.
Horror Start for Maharashtra
Kerala’s seamers exploited the early morning conditions perfectly, with the ball swinging and seaming sharply off the surface. MD Nidheesh struck the first blow in just the fourth delivery of the innings, trapping Prithvi Shaw lbw for a duck on debut. Shaw’s dismissal set the tone for the collapse, as Nidheesh immediately followed it up by removing Siddhesh Veer with the next ball.
Basil NP then joined the attack and continued the onslaught, dismissing young all-rounder Arshin Kulkarni with his first delivery. Maharashtra captain Ankeet Bawane, known for his composure, offered brief resistance before another delivery from Basil nipped back sharply to hit the stumps, leaving Maharashtra in disarray.
By the end of the fourth over, the scoreboard read an alarming 5 for 4, as Kerala took complete control on a lively pitch that offered both movement and bounce.
Shaw’s Tough Debut After a Promising Warm-Up
For Prithvi Shaw, who recently moved from Mumbai to Maharashtra ahead of the new season, the debut could not have gone worse. The right-hander, once hailed as one of India’s brightest red-ball prospects, was looking to revive his domestic career after a turbulent phase.
Shaw’s move came following a period marked by loss of form, fitness concerns, and going unsold at the IPL 2025 auction. The shift to Maharashtra was seen as an opportunity for a fresh start and consistent game time in domestic cricket.
The 25-year-old had impressed during a warm-up match against his former team Mumbai, where he scored a century, reigniting hopes of a strong season. However, the first day of the Ranji season proved to be an unexpected setback.
Kerala’s Bowlers Shine on a Green Surface
The Green Field Stadium pitch lived up to its reputation, offering significant assistance to fast bowlers early on. Kerala’s seamers bowled tight lines and extracted bounce and seam movement that troubled every Maharashtra batter.
MD Nidheesh’s initial burst set the tone, while Basil NP’s precision and aggression kept the pressure relentless. Their partnership with the new ball was instrumental in dismantling Maharashtra’s top order before the first hour of play.
Gaikwad and Saxena Attempt to Steady the Ship
At the time of filing this report, Maharashtra were 58 for 5, with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Jalaj Saxena at the crease on 19 and 22 runs, respectively. The pair displayed resilience, cautiously rebuilding after the early collapse and denying Kerala further breakthroughs.
Their partnership will be crucial if Maharashtra hopes to post a competitive total and stay in the game.
Maharashtra’s Previous Season Performance
In the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy, Maharashtra finished fifth in Elite Group A, securing two wins, two draws, and three losses from seven matches. The side struggled with consistency, particularly in away conditions, and will be keen to rectify that this season.
However, with several experienced teams in their Group B pool — including Kerala, Saurashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Chandigarh, and Goa — the challenge ahead remains formidable.
Shaw’s Journey and Road to Redemption
Prithvi Shaw’s domestic switch has drawn significant attention in Indian cricket circles. After a spectacular start to his international career in 2018, Shaw faced repeated setbacks due to injuries, form slumps, and off-field controversies.
His decision to leave Mumbai — a powerhouse in Indian cricket — was a bold one, signaling his determination to rebuild his red-ball credentials. His century in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament earlier this year suggested that he was regaining touch.
While this debut innings will sting, Shaw’s ability to bounce back will be closely watched by selectors and fans alike as the Ranji season unfolds.
Kerala Aim to Capitalize
Kerala, who finished as runners-up in the previous Ranji season, have once again started strong. Under the leadership of their disciplined bowling attack and experienced batting core, the team looks poised to maintain its momentum.
With bowlers like Nidheesh, Basil NP, and Sijomon Joseph in form, Kerala’s confidence remains high. Their early dominance against Maharashtra has set the tone for another promising season.
What Lies Ahead
Maharashtra’s immediate task will be to avoid another batting collapse and ensure a fighting total in the first innings. The pitch is expected to flatten out as the day progresses, giving batters a chance to rebuild.
For Kerala, maintaining the pressure and converting their early advantage into a significant lead will be key.
Final Thoughts — TheTrendingPeople.com
The opening day of the Ranji Trophy 2025/26 showcased the unpredictable nature of red-ball cricket — where early morning spells can turn matches on their head. For Prithvi Shaw and Maharashtra, this was a harsh initiation, but also a reminder of the grind that domestic cricket demands. As Kerala celebrates a dominant start, all eyes will now be on how Shaw and his teammates respond in the face of adversity.