Ahead of the forthcoming domestic season, all-rounder Vijay Shankar, who has been the face of the Tamil Nadu team for well over ten years, has finally made the decision to leave his state. After receiving a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, the cricket player has declared that he will be playing professionally for Tripura in the 2025–2026 season.
Given that Vijay Shankar has played cricket for Tamil Nadu since he was a teenager, the decision was difficult for him. He made his First-Class debut with the TNCA in 2011, and he has been a part of the organization for well over two decades. The 34-year-old believes that leaving Tamil Nadu isn’t the most heartfelt decision he has ever made, but rather a forced one made in order to continue playing professional cricket.
“I’ve played for Tamil Nadu for around 23 years, from my u-13 days, so making this decision was really difficult. I have also been a member of the First-Class team since 2011. Therefore, it was undoubtedly a difficult decision. However, there are instances when you have to accept that call and move on, searching for new chances. I believe I’ve been performing well. The most essential thing is that I want to play cricket. I am unable to simply sit outside and provide water. The Hindu cited Vijay Shankar as stating, “It’s pretty tough after playing for so many years.”
Vijay Shankar believes that clarity is essential.
Vijay Shankar reflected on the previous season, noting that he had not been a regular member of the team’s playing XI in competitions such as the 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy, Ranji, or Syed Mushtaq Ali. The cricket player thought he would have more chances in the next season, but after speaking with the selectors, Vijay Shankar decided it was best for him to move on since he now had a clearer idea of what the team is trying to achieve.
I was benched for the first two Ranji games last year, but I later returned. Once more, I was benched for the final two games of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. After that, it was really difficult. However, because I performed well last year, I assumed that everything would be alright this year. There comes a time when you need clarity. Vijay Shankar, who has represented India in 21 international games, stated, “I was not getting that clarity.”
“With regard to the selections, I never felt confident. I so determined I had to answer a call at one point. And I was glad that our coach, M. Senthilnathan, at least spoke up and shared their thoughts with the selectors. I therefore thought there was no need in remaining. And it was really challenging to continue battle to play in this setup,” the Tirunelveli native added.
Not only is Shankar relocating to Tripura, but Hanuma Vihari of Andhra has also declared his intention to play professionally for the team in the forthcoming season. However, after playing for Tripura for a season, Mandeep Singh left the association.
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