Vijay Shankar, the all-rounder who was famously labeled a '3D cricketer', has announced his retirement from domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL) to explore opportunities abroad. The 35-year-old made the announcement via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on May 22, 2026, bringing an end to a career that was marked by both promise and controversy.
A Career Defined by Controversy
Shankar's selection ahead of Ambati Rayudu for the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup squad created a significant stir. Rayudu's cryptic social media post, where he stated, 'Just ordered a new set of 3D glasses to watch the World Cup,' went viral, highlighting the unexpected nature of Shankar's inclusion. Despite the criticism, Shankar went on to play for India in limited-overs formats, though he failed to cement a permanent spot.
Domestic and IPL Journey
In domestic cricket, Shankar represented Tamil Nadu with distinction, contributing as a handy medium-pace bowler and a reliable middle-order batsman. His IPL career saw him play for franchises like Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans, where he showcased his versatility. However, consistent performances eluded him, and he gradually fell out of favor in the IPL auction circuit.
Pursuing Overseas Dreams
With his retirement from the Indian domestic circuit, Shankar is now looking to ply his trade in overseas leagues such as the T20 Blast in England, the Caribbean Premier League, or Major League Cricket in the USA. His experience and skill set could make him a valuable asset in these competitions.
Fans and former teammates have reacted with mixed emotions, acknowledging his contributions while understanding his desire for new challenges. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet commented on his retirement.
