Virender Sehwag and Shoaib Akhtar to lock horns in ice cricket

In their playing days, Virender Sehwag and Shoaib Akhtar shared one of the fierce cricketing rivalries. Over the years, we’ve seen a bond develop between them as fellow experts in a panel or in the commentary box. Now fans may get to witness another contest between the two.

The two legends are all set to go face-to-face in ice cricket this time. The match would be taking place at the frozen lake in St. Moritz, Switzerland, which also has a beautiful background of the Swiss Alps. The tournament is scheduled to be played on the 8th and 9th of February.

While the sport was introduced in 1988, it would be the first time international cricketers like Sehwag and Shoaib Akhtar will be playing in the country. Both readily agreed to take part in the tournament. However, it’s not only Sehwag and Akhtar who are taking part in the tournament.

Many other international cricketers like Graeme Smith, Jacques Kallis, Lasith Malinga, Mahela Jayawardene, Michael Hussey, Daniel Vettori, Nathan McCullum, Grant Elliot, Mohammad Kaif, Monty Panesar and Owais Shah will also feature in the tournament.

Playing on Ice does sound very interesting

Former Indian opener Sehwag remarked that he never expected to play cricket on ice. However, he described that the prospect of playing ice cricket excited him and he looked forward to playing.

“I never thought playing cricket on ice was possible but now that it is happening, I wanted to experience it. It won’t be serious cricket but it would still be a challenge to play on ice. Five minutes to be honest. Cricket is not popular in Europe but with this initiative, we can make an impact. And playing on ice does sound very interesting.” Sehwag told according to the PTI.

The dashing batsman also mentioned that since he retired, it would be a challenge for him to get into the groove.

“I was still playing First-Class cricket in 2015 so it was not very difficult to play those matches. Now since I have stopped playing the game completely, it will be a challenge to get into the groove. But there will be no pressure to win or lose. Also, now that I am retired I don’t need to take anyone’s permission including the BCCI,” Sehwag stated.