Tamil Nadu all-rounder Vijay Shankar got a surprise call-up to the Indian Test side, when he was named as Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s replacement for the series against Sri Lanka. Vijay Shankar himself admitted that he did not expect the call-up and it was a dream come true for him. Currently playing in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Shankar scored a hundred against Odisha and has picked up 6 wickets with his medium pacers. He averages 49.14 in First-Class cricket and has 27 scalps in 32 games in the 4-day format.
Talking about his maiden India call-up, Shankar said, “It feels great. I didn’t expect it. I always wanted to give my best in whatever cricket I play and never have I thought that if I do well in this tournament or competition I will get picked at the next level. It’s a dream come true moment and I’m looking forward to my maiden stint in the Indian dressing room,” according to TOI.
Shankar is an integral part of the India A side, but due to injuries, he has been in and out of the side over the last 18 months. “There have been times when I felt disappointed at missing out on A tours. The two months I had spent at the National Cricket Academy discussing with trainer Rajini made me learn more about myself. I always wanted to give my best and be sincere during rehab,” Shankar added.
Vijay also admits that his stints with India A have helped him become a mature all-rounder. “I had batted at different positions. It helped me understand the adaptability factor much better. I have always strived to be consistent,” the Tamil Nadu all-rounder said.
Shankar feels that working with Tamil Nadu coach Lakshmipathy Balaji has helped his bowling a great deal. “I have improved on my bowling speed. Balaji helped me understand how to make the most of my non-bowling arm and helped me in my run-up. It has helped me immensely,” Shankar concluded.
