Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar has announced that he is stepping away from every format of cricket played in India, bringing an end to a professional career that included representing the country in both One-Day Internationals and T20 Internationals, as well as featuring at the 2019 ODI World Cup. The move marks a full stop to his playing days at the domestic level, while also setting a clear boundary from the IPL franchise circuit.
Shankar’s international record was built on steady contributions in limited-overs cricket. For India, he appeared in 12 ODI matches and nine T20I games, accumulating 324 runs across the two formats and also taking nine wickets. Even as his role varied over time, he remained a dependable domestic performer, particularly for Tamil Nadu, where his skill set made him a regular pick and a trusted option in India’s pathway competitions.
At the 2019 World Cup, Shankar earned a place in the squad after being selected ahead of Ambati Rayudu, a call that sparked significant discussion in the run-up to the tournament. During the World Cup itself, he took the field in three matches, but a toe problem later forced him to miss the remainder of the campaign. His absence created an opening that saw Mayank Agarwal come in as the replacement.
In a retirement message shared with fans online, Shankar described cricket as the central focus of his life and highlighted the long arc of his journey from a young beginner to an international player. He wrote: “A HEARTFELT THANK YOU. Cricket is my life. I started playing when I was 10, and 25 years later, I am grateful and blessed to have played at every level and to the highest level. Representing our country will always be one of my proudest and happiest moments.”
Alongside confirming the end of his playing career in domestic cricket and the IPL, Shankar also suggested he intends to remain connected to the sport in a new capacity. He stated that the decision to retire is driven by the desire to chase fresh opportunities and continue playing cricket in other avenues, adding that gratitude alone cannot capture what he feels for the chance to do what he loves. He also expressed thanks to the BCCI and the Indian team, calling out the lessons, memories, and motivations he gathered along the way.
Reflecting on milestones from his time in international colours, Shankar singled out moments he said he will carry for life. In particular, he pointed to his first wicket at the World Cup and the experience of delivering the final over in India’s 500th ODI. “Representing the country will be my highest badge of honour. Bowling the last over at India's 500th ODI at Nagpur and my First ball, first wicket at the 2019 World Cup are moments I will hold onto forever!” he added.
Shankar’s IPL career comprised 78 appearances, during which he played for multiple franchises including Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, and Gujarat Titans. He also enjoyed the high point of winning silverware, being part of the Gujarat Titans squad that lifted the title in 2022. Across those stints, his all-round skill set and familiarity with varying match situations helped him carve out a role whenever called upon.
Before his IPL and international days, Shankar built his reputation in domestic cricket with Tamil Nadu. His success included leading the side to trophies in major competitions such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the Deodhar Trophy, and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. More recently, he turned out for Tripura last season, continuing to contribute at the state level even as his playing future now comes to a close.
Closing the statement, the 35-year-old thanked the people who supported him throughout his career and addressed the emotional side of dealing with criticism and negativity. He offered particular appreciation to coaches and support staff, physiotherapists and trainers, mentors, and his mental conditioning coach. He also included groundsmen, friends in the media and press, and the professionals who looked after nutrition and medical needs. He wrote: “A big thank you to coaches and support staff everywhere, Physios and trainers, Mentors and my mental conditioning coach, Groundsmen, my friends at the media and press, my nutritionist and doctors, and everyone who has sent a good word!”
Shankar also spoke candidly about the hate and negativity he has faced, saying he chose to ignore it and move forward. He encouraged others to stay focused and keep working hard, concluding with an emotional message about cricket’s impact on his life. “Lastly, my family and friends' words won't do justice, but thanks to them for sticking with me through literally thick and thin. I have faced unreal hate and negativity. Let me take this opportunity to let you know that I chose to ignore and move forward. If I can do that, anyone can! Think positively and work hard. Cricket has taught me life. Cricket is my life. Grateful and blessed, Your 3D cricketer, Vijay Shankar.”
