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The wait for Prithvi Shaw continues in IPL 2026. Despite being part of the Delhi Capitals squad, the explosive opener is yet to play a single game this season. As Delhi prepare to face Kolkata Knight Riders at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, fans are once again wondering whether Shaw will finally make it into the playing 11.
A Forgotten Star in IPL 2026
Once regarded as the future of Indian cricket, Prithvi Shaw’s career has taken an unexpected turn over the past few seasons. The right-handed batter, known for his fearless approach and aggressive stroke play, has struggled to cement his place in recent times.
His IPL 2026 journey began on a disappointing note when he went unsold in the initial rounds of the auction. Delhi Capitals later brought him back into the squad, but even after multiple games, Shaw has remained on the bench.
Delhi Capitals Facing a Tough Situation
Delhi Capitals have endured a difficult campaign this season. In 10 matches, the team has managed only four wins while losing six games. With just eight points on the table, Delhi currently sit in seventh position and are under immense pressure heading into the business end of the tournament.
Although the franchise is still mathematically alive in the playoff race, their inconsistent performances have made qualification extremely challenging. Every remaining match is now a virtual knockout game.
Why Fans Want Prithvi Shaw in the Playing 11
Many fans and cricket experts believe Delhi Capitals need a more aggressive batting approach at the top order. That is where Prithvi Shaw could become a game-changer.
Shaw is known for his attacking mindset during the powerplay and his ability to score quickly against both pace and spin. His fearless batting style can shift momentum instantly and put opposition bowlers under pressure from the very first over.
Considering Delhi’s struggles with consistency in batting, several supporters feel Shaw deserves at least one opportunity this season.
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Rahul and Nissanka Have Strengthened the Opening Pair
At the moment, KL Rahul and Pathum Nissanka have been handling Delhi’s opening duties effectively.
Rahul has been one of the team’s most dependable performers this season, while Nissanka has also impressed with solid contributions at the top. Because of their form, the management may not want to disturb a settled opening combination in such crucial matches.
Consistency Continues to Hurt Shaw
There has never been any doubt regarding Prithvi Shaw’s talent. However, inconsistency has remained a major concern throughout his career.
While Shaw has produced match-winning knocks in the past, he has also struggled with prolonged lean patches. This unpredictability may be one of the key reasons why Delhi Capitals are hesitant to include him in the starting XI during a must-win phase of the tournament.
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Is Shaw Likely to Play Against KKR?
Looking at Delhi’s current situation, it seems unlikely that the team management will make experimental changes against Kolkata Knight Riders. With playoff qualification on the line, Delhi are expected to rely on their regular combination once again.
As a result, Prithvi Shaw’s chances of featuring in today’s match appear slim. However, if Delhi Capitals are eventually eliminated from the playoff race, the franchise could give Shaw an opportunity in the remaining games.
Final Verdict: Will Prithvi Shaw Finally Get His Chance for Delhi Capitals?
At the moment, the chances of Prithvi Shaw returning to the Delhi Capitals playing XI appear low. The team management is focused on stability and cannot afford risky changes during such a crucial stage of the tournament.
Still, Shaw remains one of the most talented young batters in Indian cricket. If Delhi’s playoff hopes end, the franchise may finally hand him an opportunity later in the season. Until then, fans will continue waiting to see the explosive opener back in action.
Also Read: DC vs KKR IPL 2026: Top 3 Batters Who Could Score Most Runs
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