Shankar couldn't make an impact for CSK last season (Courtesy: Reuters)

Vijay Shankar retires from IPL and domestic cricket, to prolong career overseas

Vijay Shankar has retired from the IPL and domestic cricket to seek more opportunities overseas. The move follows after being unsold during the IPL 2026 auction despite registering as an uncapped player.

22 May 2026, 13:09 by Alan Jose John · India Today

In Short

Shankar played 78 IPL matches across 10 seasons for four teams
He scored 1233 IPL runs and took nine wickets in total
In first-class cricket, Shankar made 4253 runs and claimed 43 wickets

Former CSK and India all-rounder Vijay Shankar has announced that he is retiring from IPL and domestic cricket, to prolong his playing career overseas. Shankar played for four teams in the IPL and took part in 78 games across 10 seasons.

He scored 1233 runs and picked nine wickets during this time. Shankar also played 77 first-class matches during his domestic career, scoring 4253 and picking 43 wickets. On Friday, May 22, Shankar put out a lengthy statement explaining the reasons behind his retirement. The all-rounder said he has taken the call to play more cricket elsewhere and get more opportunities.

“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.

"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."

"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 onto forever!

"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!" read the statement from Shankar.

Shankar also paid tribute to his coaches and family in the statement, before signing off by telling his fans how he was able to rise above hate and how cricket taught him all about life.

"I have faced unreal hate and negativity. Let me take this opportunity to let you know that I chose to ignore and move forward. If I can do that- anyone can! Think positive and work hard. Cricket has taught me life. Cricket is my life," said Shankar.

(Credit: Vijay Shankar X)

The Tamil Nadu all-rounder was a part of CSK last season, where he struggled to make an impact with the bat and was released ahead of the new season.

He came into the auction as an uncapped player after having played for India last in June 2019. But he didn't find any takers in the auction.

Shankar also played 12 ODIs and nine T20Is for India during his international career.

- Ends