Veteran Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar is likely to switch from Tamil Nadu to Tripura on the eve of the next domestic cricket season, reportedly. Taking a cue from fellow India international Hanuma Vihari, Shankar is likely to be the next big-name player to turn out for a North-Eastern state in Indian domestic cricket.
NOC from TNCA, Waiting for Final Approval from Tripura
In an exclusive conversation with Cricbuzz, the 31-year-old cricketer has affirmed that he has already received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). Yet, an official word from the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) is awaited.
“I have received the NOC from TNCA but haven’t heard back from the Tripura Cricket Association yet. I will be able to make the official announcement once I receive the formal approval letter from Tripura,” stated Vijay Shankar.
Vijay Shankar to Partner with Hanuma Vihari for Tripura
A TCA senior official confirmed Vijay Shankar would join Hanuma Vihari as a professional player for the next season. Tripura will be playing in the Elite division in all the formats: Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Hanuma Vihari Makes It Official
In the meantime, Hanuma Vihari made his switch official with a social media announcement saying:
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“After careful thought, I have decided to shift base to the Tripura Cricket Association, where I will play for the state across all three forms of the game.
I’m thankful to Andhra Cricket Association for the support till now but feel Tripura is a better fit for my goals.”
Vijay Shankar’s Domestic Career Highlights
Having made his debut for Tamil Nadu in 2012, Vijay Shankar has established a good domestic career:
Ranji Trophy: 58 games, 3,142 runs, average 44.25, 11 centuries, 16 half-centuries
List A: 62 games, 1,702 runs, average 34+, 2 centuries, 9 half-centuries
T20s: 47 games, 1,004 runs
During the 2023-24 domestic season, Shankar performed well in first-class cricket:
Ranji Trophy: 476 runs in 6 games, average 52.88, 2 centuries, 1 half-century
Vijay Hazare Trophy (List A): 188 runs in 5 games, average 37.6
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20): 45 runs from 3 matches
International Experience: World Cup Heroics and Beyond
Vijay Shankar has represented India at the international level as well. He has featured in 12 ODIs and 9 T20Is, with all-round performances remembered, including an impact performance against Pakistan at Old Trafford during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Vijay Shankar’s experience and adaptability will provide the basis for a key role for Tripura for the next season/s. While awaiting formal announcement following TCA clearance Vijay Shankar joining with Hanuma Vihari is an important step forward for North-East cricket.
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