Veteran Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar, who announced his retirement from domestic cricket, signed a contract to play in the Lanka Premier League for Kandy Royals. The move extends Shankar’s professional career in franchise T20 leagues after he stepped away from first-class and List A competition in India.
Shankar built his reputation through Tamil Nadu domestic cricket and IPL stints where his medium pace and lower-order hitting provided balance to multiple franchises. Retirement from India’s domestic structure often precedes lucrative overseas league engagements where experience commands auction value.
Kandy Royals sought middle-order stability and death-over options Shankar developed during years of IPL and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy competition. Sri Lankan league officials promote international signings to elevate broadcast appeal and competitive standards against established franchises in Colombo and Galle.
Domestic retirement allows Shankar to focus on T20 skill maintenance without the travel demands of Ranji Trophy seasons spanning months across state venues. Younger Tamil Nadu players now inherit roster spots Shankar vacated in India’s premier domestic championship.
Franchise cricket continues absorbing veterans who exit long-form domestic pipelines but remain valuable in specialized T20 roles requiring situational awareness and power hitting against spin in middle overs. Shankar said he looked forward to contributing match-winning performances in Sri Lanka while mentoring younger teammates in the Kandy dressing room.
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Sources:
https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricket-news