Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar has announced his retirement from international cricket, citing the "unreal hate and negativity" he faced during his career. The 33-year-old Tamil Nadu cricketer made the announcement via a social media post on Wednesday.
A Career Cut Short by Negativity
Shankar, who played 12 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 9 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for India, said the constant criticism and trolling affected his mental well-being. He was often targeted after India's 2019 World Cup semifinal loss, where he was dismissed for a low score.
Early Promise and International Debut
Shankar burst onto the scene with impressive performances in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He made his international debut in 2017 and was seen as a promising all-rounder capable of batting in the middle order and bowling medium pace.
The 2019 World Cup Turning Point
His selection for the 2019 World Cup was controversial, and after a poor run of form, he became a target of online abuse. Despite his efforts, the negativity never subsided, leading to his decision to step away from the game.
Retirement Statement
In his statement, Shankar said, "I have decided to retire from Indian cricket. The unreal hate and negativity I have faced over the years have taken a toll on my mental health. I thank my family, teammates, and well-wishers who supported me."
Legacy and Future Plans
Shankar leaves behind a legacy of grit and determination. He will continue to play domestic cricket for Tamil Nadu and participate in the IPL. His decision highlights the growing issue of mental health in sports.
