Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has praised Sarfaraz Khan’s impressive fitness transformation while sending a pointed message to struggling opener Prithvi Shaw about the professional fitness standards required in international cricket.
The weight loss journey of Sarfaraz Khan was a stunning one as the Mumbai middle-order batsman lost 17 kilograms in two months. Despite failing to be picked in the ongoing Test series between India and England, Khan has experienced a transformation that shows his commitment to the requirements of top-level cricket.
Pietersen amplified this achievement on social media, reposting Khan’s photos with a call to “show this to Prithvi Shaw”, emphasizing fitness as a crucial factor for success at the international level.
Shaw’s career arc contrasts sharply with Khan’s current dedication. Once hailed as India’s next batting prodigy after his 2018 debut century, Shaw, now 25, has struggled recently, scoring just 11, 9, 0, and 1 in his last four innings following a notable 150 in Bengaluru. More critically, Shaw was dropped mid-season from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad due to persistent fitness concerns and went unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction.
The physical transformation of Khan, which took place in 60 days with the help of his father-coach, entailed a total lifestyle change and an intense fitness program. This change has silenced critics who doubted his dedication. It is also an indication that he is ready to cope with the requirements of contemporary cricket, which is marked by long tours and hectic schedules.
His fitness issues have halted his international career despite his technical ability as shown by a first-class average of 65.98. A new chance of revival comes with his recent transfer to Maharashtra in the 2025-26 domestic season under Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Pietersen’s remarks are based on his experience of the physical requirements of cricket, and that it is no longer sufficient to be naturally talented. His open support of Khan and criticism of Shaw in terms of fitness highlights the changing professionalism in cricket.
Sarfaraz Khan turned his exclusion from the England series into motivation for change, showing mental resilience crucial for success. Shaw’s struggles, meanwhile, illustrate how talent without discipline and fitness can limit a player’s career.
The weight loss journey of Sarfaraz Khan was a stunning one as the Mumbai middle-order batsman lost 17 kilograms in two months. Despite failing to be picked in the ongoing Test series between India and England, Khan has experienced a transformation that shows his commitment to the requirements of top-level cricket.
Pietersen amplified this achievement on social media, reposting Khan’s photos with a call to “show this to Prithvi Shaw”, emphasizing fitness as a crucial factor for success at the international level.
Outstanding effort, young man! Huge congrats and I’m sure it’s going to lead to better and more consistent performances on the field. I love the time you’ve spent reorganising your priorities!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) July 21, 2025
LFG! 🚀
Can someone show Prithvi this please?
It can be done!
Strong body, strong… https://t.co/U6KbUXlfVf
Shaw’s career arc contrasts sharply with Khan’s current dedication. Once hailed as India’s next batting prodigy after his 2018 debut century, Shaw, now 25, has struggled recently, scoring just 11, 9, 0, and 1 in his last four innings following a notable 150 in Bengaluru. More critically, Shaw was dropped mid-season from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad due to persistent fitness concerns and went unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction.
The physical transformation of Khan, which took place in 60 days with the help of his father-coach, entailed a total lifestyle change and an intense fitness program. This change has silenced critics who doubted his dedication. It is also an indication that he is ready to cope with the requirements of contemporary cricket, which is marked by long tours and hectic schedules.
His fitness issues have halted his international career despite his technical ability as shown by a first-class average of 65.98. A new chance of revival comes with his recent transfer to Maharashtra in the 2025-26 domestic season under Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Pietersen’s remarks are based on his experience of the physical requirements of cricket, and that it is no longer sufficient to be naturally talented. His open support of Khan and criticism of Shaw in terms of fitness highlights the changing professionalism in cricket.
Sarfaraz Khan turned his exclusion from the England series into motivation for change, showing mental resilience crucial for success. Shaw’s struggles, meanwhile, illustrate how talent without discipline and fitness can limit a player’s career.
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