Never expected India call: Vijay Shankar

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu allrounder Vijay Shankar late on Monday evening received his maiden call-up into the Indian Test team as replacement for Bhuvneshwar Kumar for the Test series against Sri Lanka.
A delighted Vijay Shankar, who was part of the TN Ranji side that played Madhya Pradesh in Indore, said he “never expected” it.
“It feels great. I didn’t expect it. I always wanted to give my best in whatever cricket I play and never have I thought that if I do well in this tournament or competition I will get picked at the next level.It’s a dream-come-true moment and I’m looking forward to my maiden stint in the Indian dressing-room,” Vijay told TOI.
Over the past three years, Vijay, 26, was a regular feature in the India A set-up and chief selector MSK Prasad did mention that Vijay was always in the selectors’ radar. But the lanky cricketer, who represented Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL, was unfortunate with a spate of injuries over the last 18 months. Yet, the allrounder has overcome every obstacle.
“There have been times when I felt disappointed at missing out on A tours. The two months I had spent at the National Cricket Academy discussing with trainer Rajini made me learn more about myself. I always wanted to give my best and be sincere during rehab,” added Vijay who averages 49.14 in first-class cricket.
Vijay, a terrific fielder, believes the India A stints helped him evolve and mature as a complete allrounder. “I had batted at different positions. It helped me understand the adaptability factor much better. I have always strived to be consistent,” he said.
Vijay said discussing some technical aspects of his bowling with TN bowling coach L Balaji has done him a world of good. “I have improved on my bowling speed. Balaji helped me understand how to make the most of my non-bowling arm and helped me in my run-up. It has helped me immensely,” he added.