Who Is Vijay Shankar? CSK Star All-Rounder Bids Farewell To Tamil Nadu Cricket And Joins THIS Team News24 –

In a shocking move that will stun cricket fans in Tamil Nadu, state’s most consistent all-rounder Vijay Shankar has opted out of his home team. Fresh from playing for TNCA President’s XI in the Buchi Babu tournament just a week ago, the 34-year-old has fetched a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and is ready to shift to Tripura, bringing to an end a golden 13-year stint with Tamil Nadu cricket.

End of an Era in Tamil Nadu Cricket

From the time he debuted in the 2011-12 season, Vijay Shankar has been a crucial member of Tamil Nadu’s middle order, bailing the team out with vital performances and handy contributions with the ball too. His impressive shows – such as a rich vein of form during the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season during which he scored 476 runs at 52.88 – only go to prove how invaluable he has been as a seasoned campaigner.

But a mix of injuries, team changes, and being ‘rested’ for important matches such as the second round of the Buchi Babu tournament against Maharashtra appears to have driven him to look for a new challenge.

Head coach M. Senthilnathan made a nod to Shankar’s contribution by saying

“He has contributed hugely to TN cricket, and it is enjoyed by all. Now that he has chosen to shift from the State team, we will miss him but wish him well. To a certain extent, we have a good talent pool. This now creates an opportunity for some of the newer players to seize the chance and perform well for the team.”

Who is Vijay Shankar?

Vijay Shankar is not only a domestic gem but also a player who has worn the India jersey in ODIs and T20Is. Praises his calm batting, medium-pace bowling, and cool temperament under pressure, he has played 70 First-Class matches, making 3,702 runs at an average of 45.14 with 11 centuries to his name.

He also contributed immensely to Tamil Nadu’s title-winning quests – guiding the team to Vijay Hazare and Deodhar Trophy triumph in 2016-17 and capturing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 title in 2021-22.

A Fresh Chapter Begins

Though his exit heralds an end of an era for Tamil Nadu cricket, it is also an indicator that a fresh chapter in the life of Vijay Shankar is in the making – one that might witness him shine in another domestic setup and maybe make a comeback to the IPL limelight with CSK. For supporters, there remains hope that his next step puts the career back on track and gets him back to the biggest Indian cricket stage.