‘Your 3D cricketer’: India’s 2019 World Cup squad member announces retirement
All-rounder Vijay Shankar has announced his retirement from all Indian domestic cricket and the IPL, concluding a career that saw him represent India in ODIs and T20Is, including the 2019 World Cup. Shankar, who played 12 ODIs and 9 T20Is, expressed gratitude for his journey and plans to explore new opportunities in cricket.
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 side in both ODIs and T20Is, including at the 2019 ODI World Cup. A dependable performer in domestic cricket for Tamil Nadu, Shankar played 12 ODIs and nine T20Is for India, scoring a combined 324 runs while also taking nine wickets. He was part of India’s squad for the 2019 World Cup after being selected ahead of Ambati Rayudu in a decision that generated major debate at the time.
Shankar featured in three matches during the tournament before suffering a toe injury, which ruled him out and paved the way for Mayank Agarwal to join the squad as replacement. In a heartfelt retirement statement shared on social media, Shankar reflected on his long association with the sport and the memories created during his career. “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 revealed that although he is stepping away from domestic cricket and the IPL, he intends to continue exploring opportunities to remain 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 will not suffice for letting me do what I love.