Vijay Shankar, a member of India’s 2019 World Cup squad, has taken a significant step in his cricketing career.
Vijay Shankar Leaves Tamil Nadu, Set to Represent Tripura

All-rounder Vijay Shankar, who was part of India’s 2019 World Cup squad, has decided to part ways with his home state, Tamil Nadu, and will represent Tripura going forward. The right-handed batter spoke to The Hindu, explaining that frustration over being sidelined despite consistent performances prompted his move.
Vijay Shankar, 34, confirmed he has received a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) and is eager to begin this new chapter in his career. He criticized selectors for their alleged lack of clarity, revealing multiple instances where he was dropped from playing XIs.
He added that being excluded from the TNCA President’s XI and several Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches left him increasingly frustrated.
“You need some clarity at some point. I was not getting that clarity,” he remarked, explaining the rationale behind his decision to switch teams.
‘Never got any secure feeling’

All-rounder Vijay Shankar, who has scored 3,142 runs in 81 Ranji Trophy innings, has openly criticized selectors for not providing him stability despite consistent performances. He revealed that he often had to constantly prove himself, even after registering his career-best 150* against Chandigarh last season.
“I never got any secure feeling when it comes to the selectors. At one point, I decided I needed to take a call. Our coach (M. Senthilnathan) explained what they were thinking, and I felt there was no point staying and fighting it out,” Shankar said.
He also highlighted the lack of clarity in his batting roles, explaining that in 2022 he batted at No. 6 for three consecutive hundreds but was later shuffled between No. 3 and No. 7 in subsequent matches.
Shankar has now joined Hanuma Vihari to represent Tripura after receiving a No-Objection Certificate from the Andhra Pradesh Cricket Association, ahead of the upcoming domestic season.