Vijay Shankar disappointed for not getting considered even after having a decent run for India


Vijay Shankar disappointed for not getting considered even after having a decent run for India

Vijay Shankar

Vijay Shankar, who played his last match for India in the 2019 World Cup, has expressed disappointment that he was not even considered despite a decent run for India. He also said that he deserves to be a part of the squad when people believe and trust him for his abilities.

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Vijay Shankar appeared in just three matches during the 2019 World Cup, scoring 58 runs and taking two wickets. He then fractured his toe and had to withdraw from the tournament. Since then, he hasn’t been given a chance as Shivam Dube has advanced and Hardik Pandya making full use of the opportunities and becoming the premier all-rounder.

Injuries have bothered Vijay Shankar for a long period, keeping him out of several major competitions. Though he did play for India A, he was not selected in the Indian team. Looking back at that time, Vijay Shankar has expressed regret saying that he was disappointed that he was not even considered after the World Cup.

Vijay Shankar speaks on his difficult times

Vijay Shankar
Vijay Shankar

“It was very difficult, definitely. But if you ask me, from the time I got dropped from the Indian team, it was very difficult. I had another injury and then I was not even closer to getting into the Indian side after that. But if you see the time I was with the Indian team, I had a decent run. I was contributing in whatever batting order, whatever situation it was,” Shankar told India Today.

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“Definitely, whoever has played for that country would love to wear that jersey again. There is no doubt about that. I just felt when I had a decent run and I was not even considered after that, it was a little disappointing,” added Shankar.

When questioned whether Hardik Pandya’s reluctance to contribute with bowling creates a chance for him, Shankar asserted that he needs to be identified for his talent and not be in the squad simply because he is another fast-bowling all-rounder. Adding to that he also stated that if a situation of comparison arises he has performed better than other players.

Vijay Shankar admitted that having an Indian recall is out of his control and that he can’t see himself getting into the side right now, but promised to fight for the spot again in the future.

“I can’t think of getting into the Indian side, those things are not in my hand. All I can do is prepare hard and try and do well in the matches that I play. I will try to push for that place again,” quoted Shankar.

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Vijay Shankar, speaking about the incidents, acknowledged that the numerous injuries had harmed his self-confidence. To remain in a good state of mind, it is important that a player has played a reasonable string of matches.

“Definitely injuries have played a big part in my career. I don’t see that as something which I can justify, saying I could have done better if I had been fit. I don’t think that is fair to say. Injuries are bound to happen for sportsmen. It’s about pushing myself harder every day. These things are part of my journey,” said Shankar.

India will be touring Sri Lanka in July for a limited-overs series. As the core players would be in the UK for the WTC finals and five-test series against England, the team for Sri Lanka would consist of white-ball specialists. The squads haven’t been announced yet but Shankar has a chance to make it into the team.

Also Read: You have Hardik Pandya, but you need to have one more all-rounder in the Indian team: Shivam Dube

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