Few batsmen in cricketing history have had the ability to mix simplicity and aggression like Virender Sehwag. His former teammate and fellow Indian legend VVS Laxman spoke to Shiamak Unwalla about what Sehwag was like both on and off the field. From discussing Sehwag’s unique technique to his approach in the nets and the advice they gave each other, Laxman regaled memories of their playing days. He gave a few anecdotes about some of the things Sehwag said and did off the field that made him such a special character, while also mentioning his favourite Sehwag innings. Laxman went on to give a personal message from him to Sehwag as well. READ: VVS Laxman: Virender Sehwag — a Heart of Gold, caring and giving
Two minutes into the interview, I got a first-hand look at what it must have been as a tailender batting with VVS Laxman. It was a big interview, and I apologised in advance for my inexperience. Laxman immediately put me at ease by assuring me that we could do multiple takes and take an occasional break if needed. Having been made to feel comfortable by someone who played 134 Tests and scored 8,781 runs for India, we proceeded with the interview. I imagine Ishant Sharma would have felt similarly at ease after a Laxman pep-talk akin to what I had just received when the two helped India pull off an improbable chase against Australia at Mohali in 2010. Having overcome my nerves, thanks to Laxman, we proceeded to have a delightful chat about Virender Sehwag.
Interestingly, Laxman’s favourite innings by Sehwag is the 151 he got against Australia at Adelaide in 2007-08. Australia had a 37-run lead over India in the first innings, and India were in some trouble in the second innings, with Rahul Dravid getting retired hurt for 11 and wickets falling at the other end on Day Five. Sehwag ended up scoring 151 off 236 balls with 11 fours and two sixes; a restrained performance by his own standards. India declared at 267 for 7; only 116 runs were scored by the other batsmen put together as the match ended in a draw. It was that innings of immense restraint that impressed Laxman ahead of Sehwag’s two triple centuries, the 293 against Sri Lanka at Brabourne, and the unbeaten 201 where Sehwag carried his bat at Galle. READ: Virender Sehwag: Of simplicity, songs, and savage serenity
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(Shiamak Unwalla, a reporter with CricketCountry, is a self-confessed Sci-Fi geek who loves cricket more than cricketers. His Twitter handle is @ShiamakUnwalla)
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