Prithvi Shaw dropped from Mumbai team due to high body fat content: Know what it means for health

For the upcoming Ranji Trophy match scheduled to be played in Agartala from October 26 to 29, top order batter Prithvi Shaw has been dropped from the Mumbai squad. One of the reasons for not including Shaw in the match is his fitness.

It is reliably learnt that the 24-year-old does not regularly attend the team's training sessions and has also appeared a "little overweight", PTI reported. "You have to look at his fitness and his running when he is on the field. The MCA has a rich history and there cannot be exceptions for a certain player," an official from Mumbai Cricket Association told PTI.

See more: Weight Loss Tips to Lose Inches of Stubborn Belly Fat in a Healthy Way

Currently, the Mumbai squad comprises Ajinkya Rahane (c), Ayush Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Akhil Herwadkar, Shreyas Iyer, Siddhesh Lad, Suryansh Shedge, Hardik Tamore (wk), Sidhaant Addhatrao (wk), Shams Mulani, Karsh Kothari, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Avasthi, Juned Khan, Royston Dias.

Reports say, Prithvi has 35 percent body fat which is in sharp contrast to 15% body recommendation for batters and wicket keepers. “He has been dropped, and needs to go back to training and shed some body weight to be considered for selection,” an MCA official told the media.

A body fat percentage of 35% indicates a relatively high amount of body fat compared to lean mass (muscle, bone, etc.). For women, 35% body fat falls within the "average" to "overweight" range, while for men, it is classified as "obese" by most health standards. This level of body fat can have various implications for overall health.

At 35% body fat, individuals are more prone to developing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and metabolic syndrome. Excess fat, especially visceral fat around the abdomen, increases the risk of these conditions by affecting hormone regulation, increasing inflammation, and disrupting metabolism.

High body fat can also negatively impact mobility, physical fitness, and energy levels. Individuals with this level of fat may experience fatigue, joint pain, and a reduced capacity for physical activity due to the strain on the body, especially the heart and joints.

It’s important to address excess body fat through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes to improve both physical and mental well-being.