The Tami Nadu all-rounder, Vijay Shankar was a part of India’s World Cup squad before getting injured. Since, then, he has failed to cement his place on the national squad and his prime competitor for the all-rounder’s spot in the side is Hardik Pandya. Despite Pandya’s absence in the team due to injury, Shankar was replaced by Shivam Dube in the national squad.

In a recent interview, Shankar said that he is unfazed by the fact that Hardik Pandya is currently the preferred all-rounder in white-ball format for India. According to Vijay, his prime focus is to become consistent in his performance to make his presence felt. However, as Pandya is fit again, Shankar will probably have to wait a little longer to return to the national squad.

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As per the quotes in India Today, Shankar said, “If it starts affecting me (that Hardik is the No 1 choice) then I will lose out on games that I have with me. If I focus on the games that I have and have match-winning performances, then my name will be there in the circuit (reckoning). If I perform, people will talk about me and if some opportunity arises, I will be getting into the Indian side. So I can’t think about what other players are doing.”

Shankar also added that his dream is not to become a survivor in the Indian team. He said that he wants to deliver consistent performances to prolong his international career.

The all-rounder added, “My dream is not just to get there and be a mere survivor. Only if I excel, can I prolong my international career? It’s important for us to be at our best when we go to the international level.”

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The Tamil Nadu all-rounder also stressed on having a fixed batting position. According to the 29-year-old, he would perform exceedingly well if he bats at No.3 or No.4 position for Team India.