Vijay Shankar signs with Tripura for 2025-26 domestic season, ends 13-year stint with Tamil Nadu

Ahead of the 2025-26 domestic season, all-rounder Vijay Shankar has signed with Tripura, bringing an end to his long and successful association with Tamil Nadu cricket. The 34-year-old, who has donned the India jersey in 12 ODIs and 9 T20Is, will join former India batter Hanuma Vihari in strengthening Tripura’s campaign across formats.

Shankar, who had been a crucial member of Tamil Nadu’s middle order for over a decade, is now all set to contribute to Tripura. Since his debut in the 2011-12 season, he has played an important role in the state’s success, including leading Tamil Nadu to twin one-day titles in 2016-17 and a Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 title in 2021-22.

"I have obtained the NOC from TNCA, but am yet to receive confirmation from the Tripura Cricket Association. I will be able to officially announce my switch once I get the formal approval letter from Tripura,” Shankar said as quoted by Cricbuzz.

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He has made immense contributions to TN cricket: M. Senthilnathan

His exit follows Andhra’s Hanuma Vihari, who recently announced his move to Tripura and is expected to captain the side in all three formats. Together, the duo is expected to bring a mix of experience and leadership that could lead to a change for Tripura, a team that is looking to perform consistently in the elite domestic division.

Shankar has played across 70 first-class matches (including India A), scoring 3,702 runs at an average of 45.14, with 11 centuries. As a medium-pacer, he has also picked up 43 wickets, making him a solid all-rounder in the domestic circuit. In the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, he scored 476 runs at an average of 52.88 with two centuries.

Notably, after a successful 2014-15 season, he played for India A and eventually the national team. He was part of India’s 2019 World Cup squad and remained a notable face in the IPL, where he represented Chennai Super Kings in the 2025 season. Tripura Cricket Association officials confirmed Shankar's signing.

“He has made immense contributions to TN cricket, and it is appreciated by one and all. Now that he has decided to move away from the State team, we will miss him and wish him the best. At the same time, we have a good talent pool. This now opens up a slot for some of the younger players to grab the opportunity and do well for the team," head coach M. Senthilnathan said.