At the Delhi Premier League (DPL) launch, organized by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), former Indian player Virender Sehwag discussed his brisk batting style in Test cricket. He highlighted how his aggressive approach and rapid scoring put the opposition on the back foot, challenging the conventional Test match tactics. Sehwag’s fearless and innovative play was instrumental in securing significant wins for India. The event underscored the DPL’s role in fostering local talent and offering a vital platform for emerging cricketers.
Virender Sehwag Talked About His Playing Approach:
At the launch of the Delhi Premier League (DPL), hosted by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), Virender Sehwag shared insights into his T20-inspired approach to Test cricket. The DPL, set to take place from August 17 to September 8, 2024, will be held at the Shri Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Sehwag’s discussion highlighted how his aggressive, fast-paced style in Tests drew inspiration from the T20 format, reflecting his innovative approach to the game.
He said, “ The manner in which England is playing Test cricket, scoring at five runs an over. In our playing days, Australia used to score at 4 runs per over. I have always believed that if you can attack, then you give your team more chances to win the Test matches.”
The critical concern is whether the surge in T20 leagues could divert young players’ attention from Test cricket. As T20 formats gain popularity, there’s apprehension that the fast-paced nature of these leagues might overshadow the appeal of traditional red-ball cricket, potentially impacting the future development and interest in Test matches among emerging cricketers.
He further said, “ Look my elder son is 17 and he played three-day cricket for Delhi U16 but there are a lot of boys who might be waiting for that opportunity. When we were 18, there was no IPL. But, now, a youngster might think of playing IPL, and DPL gives you that opportunity. So, if anyone develops an aggressive game that can suit Test cricket then why not? After all, we would like people to come and watch Tests.”
Sehwag exhibited his aggressive playing style in Test cricket long before the IPL came into existence. His reputation for bold, attacking shots was well-established before the rise of T20 leagues. This suggests that Sehwag’s dynamic approach was a natural part of his Test game, independent of any influence from T20 formats. He concluded, “ Was it good or bad? I scored a triple ton in 270-odd balls. Today’s kid might score 400 if they play that many balls.”
Virender Sehwag’s Great Performances:
Sehwag’s aggressive style of play was well established before T20 cricket gained prominence on the international stage. Renowned for his remarkable feats, he is the only Indian batsman to have scored over 200 runs in a single day of a Test match on three occasions: against Pakistan in 2004, South Africa in 2008, and Sri Lanka in 2009. Reflecting on modern cricket, Sehwag mentioned that he would not be astonished if a contemporary player were to achieve a staggering 400 runs in under 300 balls. This statement underscores his belief in the evolving capabilities of young cricketers and the potential for extraordinary performances in today’s game.
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