![Vishnu Vinod for KCL and the Vijay Hazare Trophy [Source: @vishnu_vinod4/Instagram]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1767699046673_Vishnu_Vinod_1.jpg?type=hq)
Vishnu Vinod for KCL and the Vijay Hazare Trophy [Source: @vishnu_vinod4/Instagram]
Vishnu Vinod, the dynamic right-handed wicket-keeper batter from Kerala, has been one of India's hidden domestic talents. Known for his aggressive stance on the crease, Vishnu Vinod announced himself on January 6, smashing an unbeaten 162 off just 84 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26.
Vishnu’s innings, studded with 13 fours and a remarkable 14 sixes, powered Kerala to an eight-wicket victory over Puducherry while chasing 248. This knock also marked the third-fastest 150 in List A cricket history, as it marked Vinod's reputation as a game-changer in limited-overs.
The humble beginnings of Vishnu Vinod
Born on December 2, 1993, in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, Vishnu Vinod grew up with a passion for cricket that quickly translated into standout performances at the junior level.
Vishnu was a versatile cricketer with aggressive hitting in his veins from a young age and made his domestic debut for Kerala in first-class cricket during the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season. His clean striking and wicket-keeping skills shone through.
Gradually, Vishnu Vinod established himself as a mainstay in Kerala's lineup, often batting in the middle order and providing explosive finishes.
Vinod has 1060 first-class runs from 47 innings and boasts 1998 runs from 54 List A matches while averaging at 41.62.
In recent seasons, he has been Kerala's go-to 'hitmaker', with notable six-hitting displays in T20 domestic tournaments, which made him earn praise for turning games single-handedly.
Vishnu Vinod and his journey in the IPL
Vinod's talent caught the eye of IPL scouts early on. He first entered the league with Royal Challengers Bangalore before moving to the Mumbai Indians.
During his stint with Mumbai Indians, he gained attention in 2023 when he came on as a concussion substitute for Ishan Kishan. More recently, he has been associated with Punjab Kings (PBKS) who bought him for 95 lakhs in the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Needless to say, the franchise views him as a vital asset for his firepower in the lower middle order and reliable glovework behind the stumps. Therefore, Vinod was retained by PBKS for 95 lakhs ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
While opportunities in the IPL have been limited due to stiff competition, Vinod has shown glimpses of his potential whenever given a chance, one example being the ongoing VHT 2025-26 tournament.
Vishnu Vinod’s recent form, a gate to India setup?
As of 2026, at age 32, Vinod is in the prime of his career and hitting new peaks. His blistering 162 today in the Vijay Hazare Trophy might spark discussions about his potential inclusion in India's wider white-ball setup.
With 14 sixes in a single innings, he reminds cricket addicts of the beast-mode capabilities the current lower-middle order lacks with only Hardik Pandya being the single exception.
Despite not yet earning an international cap, Vinod's consistent domestic performances position him as a strong contender for future India call-ups, especially in an era where power-hitting wicket-keepers are highly valued.
As Vindo averages at 129.00 in the ongoing VHT with two centuries to his name, he is currently knocking the door of India selectors for a place in the bench for international matches. Even if Vishnu Vinod fails to join India setup, PBKS must be eyeing the gem they retained ahead of the upcoming IPL season.
