A batsman has to build his own identity to be successful: Virender Sehwag

When the Nawab of Najafgarh, Virender Sehwag broke onto the scene way back in 2001 people were shocked to see the uncanny resemblance he had with the Little Master Sachin Tendulkar. Making his test debut against South Africa at Bloemfontein, Sehwag scored a majestic century in his debut innings and along with his idol Sachin, the duo shared a superb partnership after India was reduced to 60 odd for 4 wickets.

Some of his shots earlier in his career looked like a carbon copy of Tendulkar but as time went by he realised he has to make a niche for himself and then, as they say, the rest was history. Sehwag went on to became arguably the greatest Test opener India has ever produced especially. He also became the only Indian to smash a triple century way back in 2004 against Pakistan and followed it up with another against South Africa in a few years time.

The veteran cricketer is currently the Director of Cricket Operations of Kings XI Punjab and has taken the responsibility to strengthen the focus ad mindset of young brigades in the team. KXI P hasn’t been able to perform to their potential but their batsmen have played some sensational shots and have performed to their potential.

When asked what would he tell a Manan Vohra if he wants to bat like him or a Glenn Maxwell, Sehwag said, “I tell them only one thing. For example, Manan Vohra can bat like Manan Vohra only, not like Virender Sehwag or Glenn Maxwell. A youngster needs to know his strengths and weakness; then it becomes easier to bat or bowl. I also wanted to become Sachin Tendulkar, but I quickly realised that I can’t be.

“I couldn’t perform like him or play shots like him. I figured that I have to create my own identity and so I have to play like Virender Sehwag. I tell them that you can learn from other players, but you can’t copy from them or be them. You can (only) be you,” Sehwag was quoted as saying by India Today.

Manan Vohra has been a vital member for Punjab up the order but he hasn’t been able to pile on the big scores on a consistent basis. He almost snatched victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad before falling in the final over of Bhuvneshwar Kumar after making a brilliant 95.