'Focus on cricket, not parties': Wasim Akram's hard-hitting advice for embattled India star amidst IPL 2024

The Delhi Capitals (DC) are in the thick of the IPL 2024 playoff race. Despite a mixed season with an even win-loss record (6 wins and 6 losses) in 12 matches, they still have a shot at reaching the playoffs. Upcoming matches against fellow playoff contenders Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will certainly be crucial for Rishabh Pant-led DC.

However, a key player hasn't quite lived up to expectations. Star Indian opener Prithvi Shaw has struggled with inconsistency throughout the season. After a forgettable 2023 season where he barely managed to score a century, 2024 hasn't seen a any sort of improvement. In a total of eight matches, Prithvi Shaw has only amassed 198 runs, with a strike rate of 163.64. Importantly, he was dropped from DC's playing XI in the IPL 2024 match against Rajasthan Royals (RR), replaced by openers Jake Fraser-McGurk and Abhishek Porel who impressed with their performances.

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Wasim Akram's strong advice for Prithvi Shaw

Meanwhile, Pakistan's legendary pacer Wasim Akram issued a warning to Prithvi Shaw amidst his batting struggles in the ongoing IPL 2024. While acknowledging Shaw's talent, Akram offered some advice. Shaw's inconsistent performances and off-field issues have seen him dropped from India's national team selection.

“I haven't watched him closely this year, but he has to go back to basics, play first-class cricket and score big. Focus on cricket, not parties,” Akram told Sportskeeda.

 

“He has still got plenty of cricket in him, just go back and play first-class cricket. Get a lot of centuries and make a comeback. That's the only way. There's no shortcut. He has got time on his hands, and that's good for him,” Akram added.

 

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It's been a while since Shaw donned the Indian jersey - his last appearance was in a white-ball series against Sri Lanka way back in 2021. Wasim Akram pinpointed two key areas for Shaw's improvement: consistent playing time and maintaining good off-field conduct.

 

“He has to play regularly, and look at himself off the field. Do as many parties as you want after you retire, who cares. But now, focus on cricket,” Akram concluded.

 

The race for the IPL playoffs heats up as the Delhi Capitals lock horns with the Royal Challengers Bangalore on May 12. Both teams are vying for a crucial win to solidify their playoff chances.

 

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