Vijay Shankar represented the country in 12 ODIs and 9 T20Is between March 2018 and June 2019.
India and Tamil Nadu all-rounder Vijay Shankar on Friday (May 22) announced that he is retiring from the Indian Premier League (IPL) and domestic cricket.
Taking to social media, Shankar put out a lengthy statement explaining the reasons behind his retirement. The 35-year-old said he has taken the call to play more cricket elsewhere and get more opportunities.
“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.
"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! 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!
"My IPL Teams GT, SRH, CSK and DC - special thank you! The experience and lessons from all around have made me what I am today!" read the statement from Shankar.
Shankar also paid tribute to his coaches and family, before telling his fans how he was able to rise above hate and how cricket taught him all about life.
"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 positive and work hard. Cricket has taught me life. Cricket is my life," the statement added.
Vijay Shankar signed off with the ‘3D cricketer’ tag, evoking memories of the time when MSK Prasad called him the same after selecting him in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019. The World Cup selection brough negativity and scrutiny towards him, as a major chunk of the fans and experts believed that Ambati Rayudu was more deserving.
“Grateful and blessed. Your 3D cricketer, Vijay Shankar,” the statement concluded.
Vijay Shankar represented India in 12 ODIs and 9 T20Is. His last appearance for the national side came in June 2019. He played a total of 78 IPL matches across four franchises, scoring 1233 runs and claiming nine wickets. His domestic record was equally substantial, accumulating 4253 runs and taking 43 wickets from 77 first-class matches.