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Vijay Shankar announces retirement from Indian cricket to explore SA20, ILT20, BBL opportunities
Sanjeev Kumar | May 23, 2026 2:22 AM CST

In a shocking move, Vijay Shankar has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) and from domestic cricket. The 36-year-old batting all-rounder announced his retirement to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket.
The Tamil Nadu-born played his last official match on January 29, for Tripura, against Gujarat for a Ranji Trophy 2025-26 match. He has made his announcement amid the IPL 2026. He is not a part of any of the IPL teams this year.

Vijay Shankar shares a heartfelt post

Last season, he played for the Chennai Super Kings. Vijay Shankar's last match for the Indian national cricket team was an ICC Cricket World Cup group stage match against the West Indies on June 27, 2019, at Old Trafford in Manchester.
“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,” Vijay wrote in an emotional note. “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,” he added.

Vijay Shankar thanked BCCI and Team India for all the memories

The star cricketer paid his gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Indian Cricket Team for helping him in learning and gathering countless memories and inspirations. He still could remember the first delivery as well as the very last delivery he did for the Men in Blue.

'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 on forever," Vijay Shankar mentioned.

Vijay highlighted his journey in domestic cricket

He further thanked the IPL teams who showed their trust in him. Vijay highlighted his journey with the Tamil Nadu and Tripura cricket teams as well in his social media post.

"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! TNCA – under 13,15,17,19,22,25 and finally, senior men’s team – I’ve spent most of my life here. Thank you to everyone for every step of the way. Capitalized and won trophies with this very special side. Numerous hurdles and challenges shaped me into a better cricketer," he addressed.

"Thanks to the Tripura Team for letting me carry on the dream for a little while longer. My teams at the TNPL – CSG, IDTT, and SS. Loved playing this special tournament with all the TN talents. My most prestigious – TN league teams – Indian Bank, ICF, India Cements, and now, Take Solutions – This is where it all began for years. Grateful to have had the opportunity to play here," he mentioned further.

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