Vijay Shankar last played for India in 2019.
| Photo Credit: Getty Images
Former India player Vijay Shankar announced his retirement from “domestic and IPL cricket” on Friday. The 35-year-old played 12 ODIs and nine T20Is and last donned the national colours at the 2019 50-over World Cup.
The all-rounder made 77 First Class appearances, scoring 4,253 runs and taking 43 wickets. He also featured in 78 IPL matches while representing Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals (Delhi Daredevils), Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans.
“After 15 years, I felt I needed a new challenge and wanted to try opportunities overseas. I still have a few years of cricket left in me,” Vijay Shankar told The Hindu.
“When I started playing cricket, the dream was to get a Tamil Nadu cap. From there, going on to play for India in two formats was a great journey. I want to thank my coach, S. Balaji, and my family for their constant support.”
As skipper, Vijay Shankar led Tamil Nadu to the Vijay Hazare Trophy (one-day), Deodhar Trophy (both 2017) and Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 (2021-22) titles. His last season in domestic cricket was for Tripura in 2025-26.
Constant injuries hurt his chances of playing at the highest level for longer. “Obviously, at that time, it was difficult. But in hindsight, I don’t have many regrets because some of those injuries were beyond my control. I am happy with my journey.”
Speaking about his most memorable moments, Vijay Shankar felt that turning out for India in the World Cup clash against Pakistan was a highlight of his career.
His selection for the quadrennial event was contentious as he pipped Ambati Rayudu for a spot in the squad. The then chairman of the selection committee, M.S.K. Prasad, had justified his inclusion by calling him a three-dimensional cricketer.
Rayudu later quipped that he had “ordered 3D glasses to watch the World Cup” in reference to Vijay Shankar making the cut. The TN cricketer recalled receiving hate and vitriol online after that comment from Rayudu.
On the social media post where he announced his retirement, Vijay Shankar looked back at those tough times and how he moved on from them. He signed off as ‘Your 3D Cricketer’.
Published – May 22, 2026 08:33 pm IST
