Ruturaj Gaikwad Shares Ranji Trophy Award with Prithvi Shaw After His Explosive Double Century

In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship, Ruturaj Gaikwad won hearts after sharing his Player of the Match award with teammate Prithvi Shaw following Maharashtra’s commanding 144-run victory over Chandigarh in the Ranji Trophy 2025.

Although Gaikwad was officially declared the Player of the Match for his consistency across both innings, he humbly acknowledged Shaw’s monumental impact on the game. Shaw’s explosive double century, a brilliant 222 runs off just 141 balls, completely turned the tide in Maharashtra’s favor and sealed a dominant win.

Gaikwad showcased his own reliability with a composed 116 in the first innings and an unbeaten 36 in the second, helping Maharashtra maintain control throughout the match. However, it was Shaw’s blistering batting that stole the spotlight. His aggressive strokeplay and confident approach dismantled Chandigarh’s bowling attack and left fans in awe. Shaw’s innings ranks as the third-fastest double century in Ranji Trophy history, reaffirming his status as one of India’s most naturally gifted batters.

After the game, Gaikwad’s touching gesture became the talk of social media. The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) shared a video of Gaikwad calling Shaw to jointly receive the Player of the Match trophy — a moment that resonated with cricket enthusiasts across the country. Fans praised the camaraderie, respect, and humility both players displayed, highlighting the positive team spirit within the Maharashtra squad.

For Prithvi Shaw, the double hundred marked a remarkable comeback. After beginning the season with a duck against Kerala, Shaw found his rhythm in the following innings with a composed fifty and followed it up with this explosive double century. The knock also ended his 20-month wait for a first-class hundred, serving as a statement of intent to his critics and selectors alike.

Having shifted from Mumbai to Maharashtra earlier this year, Shaw appears rejuvenated and focused on rebuilding his domestic career. The change of environment seems to have provided him the clarity and confidence he needed after a turbulent phase marked by injuries and off-field scrutiny.

With both Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw in prime form, Maharashtra has started their Ranji Trophy campaign on a high note, sending a strong message to other teams in the domestic circuit.