Prithvi Shaw labels Sapna Gill's claims 'False' hours before getting sold to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026 Auction

On the day of his return to the IPL, Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw has firmly rejected the allegations levelled against him by social media influencer Sapna Gill in an alleged molestation case, describing

them as "false and frivolous. "

In a written response filed on Tuesday before a Mumbai sessions court, Shaw alleged that Gill was misusing legal provisions to pursue a personal agenda and attract publicity.

In his submission, Shaw claimed that Gill was "playing the womanhood card" as a retaliatory move after a criminal case had earlier been registered against her. He argued that the accusations were aimed at damaging his reputation and extorting money by exploiting his public standing.

What happened between Prithvi Shaw and Sapna Gill?

The dispute dates back to February 2023, when an argument reportedly occurred at a Mumbai pub over clicking selfies. Following the incident, Gill was arrested for allegedly attacking Shaw. She and five others were later accused of chasing Shaw's friend, Ashish Yadav, and demanding ₹50,000. Gill was subsequently released on bail.

Gill later approached the Andheri Airport police station, accusing Shaw and Yadav of assaulting her friend and sought an FIR for molestation and outraging modesty. When the police declined to register an FIR, she moved a magistrate's court. After a preliminary inquiry, police reported that no offence was made out against Shaw.

Prithvi Shaw gives reply

After repeated delays, which led the court in September 2024 to impose a ₹100 fine, Shaw finally submitted his response. He described Gill as a "struggling actor" who had approached the court for attention.

"The present criminal revision application is false, frivolous, vexatious and filed with the sole intention to malign, defame and harass the respondent by misusing his public image and celebrity status," Shaw stated.

Gill's lawyer, Ali Kaashif Khan, countered that Shaw's reply lacked "a single iota of evidence or alibi" to support his claims.

Prithvi Shaw returns to IPL

In the IPL 2026 auction, Prithvi Shaw was unsold at the first instance, but was bought in the final round by Delhi Capitals, who acquired his services for Rs 75 lakh.