Since the 2019 World Cup, Vijay Shankar has not represented team India. He injured his toes during net practice in the World Cup camp and has since then has had a string of injuries that seem to have halted his progress.
Vijay Shankar is lacking match practice. Since IPL 2020, Vijay Shankar has just played one competitive game in which he got injured again. It is hence very natural for him to get asked about the big question- his comeback in the national team. In the latest interview ESPNcricinfo, Shankar admitted that he not putting huge pressure on himself to get back in the Indian team.
“As a player you will want to push yourself for a comeback, but I want to do it the other way. I don’t want to put myself under pressure to perform or get back into the Indian team. I just want to enjoy the game and I feel I’ve done really well when I’ve enjoyed every small thing I do. The end result will take care of itself. So, whatever happens, I’m ready to take it.”
Further talking about game strategy, he also said that the availability of data has given cues on how the team can approach a game. He remains flexible about batting in any position and modifying his approach depending on the circumstances in which he goes on to the field.
Vijay Shankar has spent a lot of time preparing for the upcoming season, working on both his batting and his bowling. He mentioned that Balaji has been helping him. Shankar had a great last season with the ball whenever he got the opportunity. Last year Vijay Shankar’s economy was 6.22 and also completed a quota of 4 overs against Kolkata Knight Riders. Shankar is surrounded by world-class bowlers in the SRH squad which definitely has helped his cause. He has also focused on his rehab with his physiologist Thulasi Ramand.
SRH had a decent performance last season as they qualified for playoffs. They were eventually eliminated by Delhi Capitals in the second qualifier. Sunrisers have not enjoyed the best possible start to IPL 2021 as they succumbed to defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday. Shankar will be hoping that his performances will improve over the course of the tournament and help SRH to go deep in the competition.