Vijay Shankar, a former Indian cricketer, reflects on his illustrious career in an exclusive interview, offering a candid perspective on his retirement, injuries, and the '3D player' tag. Shankar's journey, marked by resilience and adaptability, has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
Embracing Retirement with Grace
Shankar's decision to retire from IPL and domestic cricket was a calculated move, born out of a desire to prioritize his well-being and a changing motivation. He explains, 'My first emotion was a sense of strangeness, as the realization of ending my career felt unexpected. It's a natural part of the cycle, and sometimes, you must make these calls.'
The Impact of Domestic Cricket
Domestic cricket, a cornerstone of Shankar's career, played a pivotal role in shaping his all-round abilities. He emphasizes, 'Domestic cricket is crucial for talent development. It exposes you to top-tier bowling and players, fostering growth.' As captain, he led Tamil Nadu to success, winning three trophies across different formats, showcasing his versatility and leadership skills.
The All-Rounder's Challenge
Being an all-rounder, Shankar thrived in the constant involvement in the game. He states, 'As an all-rounder, you're always engaged. It's not just batting and fielding; you're part of the entire game.' Captaincy, he believes, brought out the best in him, teaching him responsibility and the art of adapting to different situations.
Overcoming Injuries and Competition
Shankar's career was not without challenges, including injuries and competition from fellow all-rounder Hardik Pandya. He acknowledges, 'Injuries are part of the journey, and I've learned to adapt. I never played in the Duleep Trophy, but I prepared for any role the team needed.'
The '3D Player' Tag
The '3D player' label, bestowed upon him during the 2019 World Cup, remains a part of his legacy. Shankar muses, 'It's a small world, and the tag will follow. I've learned to live with it, understanding that opinions vary.' He encourages cricketers to navigate the scrutiny and focus on continuous improvement.
The Future of All-Rounders
Shankar discusses the evolving landscape of Indian cricket, where all-rounders are sought after, but the Impact Player rule favors specialists. He offers a nuanced perspective, suggesting that the rule doesn't diminish the role of all-rounders but rather emphasizes the need for comprehensive skill development.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Inspiration
Shankar is inspired by the young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who defies age stereotypes. He remarks, 'Sooryavanshi's consistent performance against top bowlers is remarkable. He proves that age is just a number.'
Exploring New Horizons
Post-retirement, Shankar envisions a future in coaching, commentary, or franchise management. He states, 'Coaching is a passion, and I aim to contribute to the sport in new ways.' His message to fans is one of gratitude and continued love for the game, emphasizing that cricket remains his life's passion.
