Virender Sehwag is a name that resonates with cricket fans as one of the most fearless and explosive batsmen. With his exceptional skill to strike the bowlers from the start of the game, Sehwag changed the game in India. By showcasing his daring technique and sheer assurance, he built a unique connection with the fans of cricket everywhere. However, Sehwag retired from all forms of international cricket on October 20 in 2015, his 37th Birthday. Often regarded as one of the best Indian cricketers, Sehwag’s journey from the streets of Najafgarh to becoming a cricket legend is awe-inspiring.
Table of Contents
Bio Table
| Full Name | Virender Sehwag |
| Known As | Viru, Nawab of Najafgarh |
| Date of Birth | October 20, 1978 |
| Age (As of 2024) | 45 years |
| Hometown | Najafgarh, Delhi, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Profession | Former Indian cricketer, Commentator |
| Weight | 85 kg (approx.) |
| Height | 5’7″ (170 cm) |
| Coach/Mentor | AN Sharma |
| Net Worth | Approx. $40 million |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Marriage Date | 22nd April, 2004 |
| Education | Arora Vidya School Jamia Millia Islamia University |
Who is Virender Sehwag?
Virender Sehwag is a former Indian cricketer famous for his aggressive batting style. He played as an opener in T20, Test matches, and ODI formats for India. He is considered one of the best Indian batsmen of all time. His playstyle was very unique. From the very first ball, Sehwag went aggressive on bowlers, making him distinct from other opening batsmen. People frequently called him the ‘Nawab of Najafgarh’. Even after his retirement, he is still cherished in the world of cricket.
Early Life, Family, and Education
Sehwag found a deep love for cricket when he turned 10. At that time, he lived in Najafgarh, Delhi. His ability was heavily moulded by the support of his mother Krishna Sehwag and his father Krishan Sehwag. Sehwag grew up playing street cricket in Delhi and was inspired by the great Indian cricketers he saw on television. Even with his stellar cricket performance, his family also focused on his studies. He completed schooling from Arora Vidya School. Later, he went to Jamia Millia Islamia University for higher studies.
For Sehwag, cricket served as his main interest. With the support of his family by his side, Sehwag started his career. His dedication to cricket fully revealed his skills in local matches.
Family Table
| Relation | Name |
| Father’s Name | Krishan Sehwag |
| Mother’s Name | Krishna Sehwag |
| Brother | Vinod Sehwag |
| Wife’s Name | Aarti Ahlawat |
| Children’s Name | Aryavir Sehwag Vedant Sehwag |
Career
In 1999 against Pakistan, Sehwag debuted for the Indian team in an ODI. In 2001, he scored a thrilling 105 runs against South Africa, which marked his major achievement. Since then, Sehwag has been a mainstay within the Indian team.
Sehwag excelled in his bold batting method. He changed the expectations of an opener by playing aggressively, even in the slow-paced Test matches. Sehwag established a new record in 2004 for India by notching a triple century in Test play against Pakistan. He achieved the same milestone in 2008 against South Africa, making him one of the best batsmen in the game.
His dependability and talent for quick scoring led India to several victories. Sehwag’s famous partnerships with Sachin Tendulkar and other top Indian cricketers were key in India’s rise to the top of world cricket.
Famous For
Virender Sehwag is recognised for his fierce batting approach and impressive talent in fielding. He was the first Indian cricketer to score two triple centuries in Test matches and one of the few players worldwide to do so. With his confident style and mastery over bowlers in Test and ODI matches, he secured the status of a top opener across all the cricket formats for Indian Cricket Team.
Achievements
- The first Indian batsman to hit a triple century in Test Cricket.
- In 278 balls, he made the record for the quickest triple-century.
- Only four players globally have achieved two triple centuries in Tests, and Virender Sehwag is one of them.
- Personal fastest record for a century in ODI is in 60 balls only.
- Helped secure India’s win during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.
- Received Padma Shri in 2010.
- He received the Arjuna Award for Cricket in 2002.
Unknown Facts
- He was once banned for a match because of a violation of rules.
- He was a big fan of Hindi songs. Sehwag was often found humming while he was on the field to remain composed.
- Sehwag idolised Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar growing up and modelled his batting style after him.
- He once held the top individual score by an Indian in an ODI (219). Later, Rohit Sharma surpassed it with his 264 runs.
- Only Sehwag has reached a triple century in Tests and scored a double century in ODIs among all cricketers.
Conclusion
No one can equate Virender Sehwag’s influence on Indian cricket. His daring and strong play changed the expectations of an opener in the game of cricket. Sehwag’s records and achievements make him one of the greatest Indian cricketers of all time. His achievements keep motivating future athletes, and his name will stand out in the annals of cricket.
FAQs
Virender Sehwag was born on 20th October, 1978.
Sehwag’s aggressive style and ability to score runs quickly made him one of the best Indian batsmen.
As an Indian cricketer, Sehwag redefined the role of an opener with his fearless and attacking batting style.
Sehwag holds the record for the highest score by an Indian batsman, with 319 runs.
Sehwag idolised Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and modelled his batting style after him.
Yes, Sehwag scored a double century (219) in ODIs. Moreover, he became one of the few Indian batsmen to do so.
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