Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar has announced that he is retiring from every format of Indian cricket, bringing an end to a professional career that included appearances for the national team in both One-Day Internationals and T20 Internationals, most notably at the 2019 ODI World Cup.
A reliable figure in India’s domestic circuit, Shankar represented Tamil Nadu and earned a place in the India setup across formats. He played 12 ODIs and nine T20Is for the country, contributing 324 runs in total and also picking up nine wickets.
Shankar was named in India’s squad for the 2019 World Cup after selection ahead of Ambati Rayudu, a call that sparked widespread debate at the time. During the tournament, he took part in three matches, but a toe injury then curtailed his run, leading to Mayank Agarwal being brought in as his replacement.
In an emotional retirement message posted on social media, Shankar looked back on his long journey with the sport and the memories he created along the way. “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,” he wrote.
Shankar also made it clear that while he is stepping away from domestic cricket and the IPL, he intends to keep exploring chances to stay connected with the game in other ways.
“I have decided to retire from playing domestic cricket and IPL to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket. Thank you will not suffice for letting me do what I love. Eternally grateful. Thankful to BCCI and the Indian Cricket Team – many learnings, countless memories, and various inspirations!” he added.
The all-rounder highlighted a few defining highlights from his international career. He pointed to the significance of his first wicket at the World Cup and also recalled the moment of delivering the final over as India recorded their 500th ODI milestone.
“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!” Shankar wrote.
IPL career and domestic achievements
In the IPL, Shankar played 78 matches and featured for Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans. He was also part of Gujarat Titans’ title-winning group in 2022.
On the domestic front, Shankar found major success with Tamil Nadu. He led the side to victories in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the Deodhar Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy before moving to Tripura last season.
Final message and response to criticism
The 35-year-old wrapped up his statement by thanking everyone who supported him throughout his career and addressing the criticism and negativity he has faced. He expressed gratitude to coaches and support staff, physios and trainers, mentors including his mental conditioning coach, groundsmen, friends from the media and press, as well as his nutritionist and doctors.
“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!” he wrote.
He then spoke candidly about the hate and negativity he has encountered and said he has chosen to ignore it and move forward. “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.”
