Discipline & sacrifice are essential

Australian great Greg Chappell has penned a letter to Prithvi Shaw showing his support. The batter from Mumbai has fallen off the radar due to multiple reasons. Over the years, instead of his batting, he’s made the new more often due to controversies. The most recent of which was his dropping from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy team due to being overweight and unseriousness towards training. 

In the letter, Chappell talked about how even the greatest batter of all time, Don Bradman, got dropped and had to make his way back. The former Australian captain talked about Prithvi’s immense potential and how this dropping can change the course of his career for the better. 

He gave his own example of how getting dropped allowed him to focus on his mental and physical fitness. Chappell advised Prithvi to forget what’s happened in the past and focus on what’s about to come. The former Indian coach also suggested that he commit himself to the task of making a return to the Indian team, and if ever Prithvi needs help, he and many are there for him.

Greg Chappell’s letter to Prithvi Shaw

“Hi Prithvi, I understand you’re facing a challenging time right now, being out of the Mumbai team. It’s natural to feel frustrated and perhaps a bit uncertain, but I want you to know that these moments are often the turning points for athletes, helping to shape both their careers and their character.

I remember watching you play for India’s under-19 team, where you showcased an extraordinary talent and a spark that made it clear you were among the most exciting young cricketers of your time. Those of us who recognize your potential are still keenly watching your journey, knowing that the best is yet to come.

Remember, setbacks are a part of every great athlete’s story. Even legends like Don Bradman experienced being dropped and having to fight their way back. What made them great was not avoiding challenges, but how they responded to them. In my own career, being dropped was one of the most humbling yet valuable experiences.

It forced me to review every aspect of my game and, more importantly, my approach. I learned that my attitude, resilience, and willingness to improve mattered more than raw talent alone. I realized that I often got myself out by letting distractions or self-doubt interfere, and that wasn’t going to change unless I took full responsibility.

So I made a commitment to myself: I’d focus on one ball at a time, really seeing each delivery, and responding in the moment. I trained not just for skill, but to strengthen my mindset, learning to judge my practice sessions by how well I stayed present and focused on each ball.

That shift – from results-focused to process-focused – transformed my approach to both practice and games. I encourage you to take a similar journey of self-reflection. It’s easy to blame circumstances, but ultimately, your response to these challenges will define your path. Elite athletes know that discipline and sacrifice are essential. It’s about honing not just your physical game, but your lifestyle, from diet to fitness, with the understanding that the pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret.

The past doesn’t define you, Prithvi. It’s what you do from here that matters. You’re still in your prime, with so many years ahead to make your mark. Take this time to visualize the cricketer and person you want to become. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to improve.

Take care of your body, get the right amount of rest, and build the strength and focus you need. The door back to the Indian team is open if you’re willing to walk through it, but it takes a commitment to growth and change.

“Know that I – and many others – believe in you and are here to support your journey back to the top. If there’s ever a way I can help or if you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. You have everything within you to reach your full potential. Wishing you all the best on this journey. Regards, Greg,”