Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar has announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, ending a professional journey that saw him represent the national team in both ODIs and T20Is, including the 2019 ODI World Cup.A reliable performer in domestic cricket for Tamil Nadu, Shankar played 12 ODIs and nine T20Is for India, scoring a combined 324 runs while taking nine wickets. He was part of India’s squad for the 2019 World Cup when he was selected ahead of Ambati Rayudu in a decision that sparked great controversy at the time. Shankar featured in three matches during the tournament before suffering a foot injury on Monday, which ruled him out and paved the way for Mayank Agarwal’s inclusion in the squad as a replacement. In a heartfelt retirement statement shared on social media, Shankar reflected on his long association with the game and the memories he made during his career.“Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Cricket is my life. I started playing at the age of 10, and 25 years later, I am grateful and fortunate to have played at every level and at the highest level. Representing my country will always be one of my proudest and happiest moments,” he wrote.Shankar also revealed that although he is stepping away from domestic cricket and the IPL, he plans to look for opportunities to stay involved in the game.“I have decided to retire from playing domestic cricket and IPL to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket. Thank you enough for letting me do that. Forever grateful.” BCCI And Indian cricket team – Lots of tutorials, countless memories, and various incentives!The all-rounder recalled some of the key moments of his international career, notably his memorable first wicket in the World Cup and bowling the last over in India’s 500th ODI.“It will be my greatest honor to represent the country. Bowling the last over in India’s 500th ODI in Nagpur and my first ball, first wicket in the 2019 World Cup are moments I will cherish forever!” He added.Shankar played and represented 78 matches in IPL. Chennai Super KingsSunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans. He was also part of the title-winning squad of Gujarat Titans in 2022.At the domestic level, Shankar enjoyed considerable success with Tamil Nadu, leading the team to victories in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Deodhar Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, before he left for Tripura last season.
Should Vijay Shankar continue his involvement in cricket in another capacity?
The 35-year-old ended his note by thanking those who have supported him throughout his career and opened up about dealing with criticism and negativity.“Thanks to the coaches and support staff everywhere, the physios and trainers, the mentors and my mental conditioning coach, the groundsmen, my friends in the media and press, my nutritionists and doctors, and everyone who sent a good word!”“Finally, words won’t do my family and friends justice, but thank you for literally being there for me through thick and thin. I’ve had to deal with unreal hate and negativity. Give me the opportunity to say that I chose to ignore and move on. If I can do it, anyone can! Think positive and work hard. Vijay Shankar.”
