Virender Sehwag, one of cricket’s most destructive openers, has opened up about a turbulent phase in his career when he nearly retired from ODI cricket. Known for revolutionising opening batting with fearless aggression, Sehwag played a key role in India’s ICC triumphs and broke several records.
Speaking on Padamjeet Sehrawat’s podcast, Sehwag recalled his struggles during the 2007-08 tri-nation series in Australia and Sri Lanka. He said frustration set in after being dropped by then-captain MS Dhoni following the first three matches.
“In the 2007-08 series against Australia, I played the first three matches and then MS Dhoni dropped me from the side. I wasn’t picked for a while after that. Then I felt that if I can’t be a part of the playing XI, then there is no point in playing ODI cricket,” Sehwag admitted.
Sachin Tendulkar’s Timely Advice
On the verge of quitting, Sehwag turned to batting legend Sachin Tendulkar for advice.
“I went to Tendulkar and said, ‘I am thinking of retiring from ODIs’. He said, ‘No. I went through a similar phase in 1999-2000, where I felt I should leave cricket. But that phase came and went. You are going through a trough, but it will pass. Don’t make any decision when you are emotional. Give yourself some time and 1-2 series, and then take a call,’” Sehwag recalled.
Tendulkar’s words proved to be a turning point. Sehwag returned to the Indian side with match-winning performances and later played a key role in India’s 2011 World Cup victory. He ended his ODI career with 251 matches, 8,273 runs at an average of 35.05, a strike rate of 104.33, 15 centuries, and 38 fifties.
Sehwag on His Son’s Cricket Journey
Sehwag also spoke about his son Aryaveer, who was selected for Delhi’s U-16 Vijay Merchant Trophy squad in December 2023.
“That pressure will always be on you, but you should not take that pressure. Pressure is something that you give, not take… Hope he goes on to play either for India or the Ranji Trophy,” Sehwag said.
Stay tuned for all the Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Cricket updates!
