Former India Coach Greg Chappell: After his expulsion from the city of Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad, former India head coach Greg Smith sent an emotional letter to out-of-favor batsman Rahul Shaw, offering his support. Shaw, who initially gained fame in 2018 after assisting India win the U-19 World Cup, hit a century in his debut in a Test versus the West Indies in Rajkot. In the moment, Shaw’s “poor fitness” prevented his from even being included in Mumbai’s team for the current Ranji Cup round. His final Tests match was during the the years 2020 and 21 tour of Australia, but he appeared for India in an ODI match versus Sri Lanka in 2021.
But in a poignant letter, Chappell reminded Shaw that career setbacks can frequently result in life-improving experiences.
Hello, Prithvi I am aware that being away from the Mumbai team is causing you to go through a difficult moment. In a letter obtained by the Times of India, Chappell wrote, “I want you to know that these moments are often the turning points for athletes, helping to shape both their careers and their character. It’s natural to feel frustrated and maybe a little uncertain.”
Former India Coach Greg Chappell’s Heartfelt Letter Offers Hope to Exiled Cricketer Prithvi Shaw:
You displayed a remarkable talent and a spark that made it evident you were one of the most exciting young cricket players of your era when I watched you play for India’s under-19 squad. The best is still to come, so those of us who see your potential are still closely following your trip.”
Chappell also recalled how he and Don Bradman, two greats from Australia, were previously cut from the squad but battled their way back to the top.
“Keep in mind that every great athlete’s journey includes failures. Legends like Don Bradman have had to battle their way back after being dropped. They were excellent because of how they handled obstacles, not because they avoided them. Being fired was one of the most humiliating yet worthwhile experiences of my own career. It made me examine every facet of my strategy and, more crucially, my game,” the letter continued.
