The Evolution of Batting in Indian Cricket: Where is Virender Sehwag Now?

The cricket world has known its fair share of great batsmen, each leaving an indelible mark on the sport. From Sunil Gavaskar to Sachin Tendulkar, the era of these batsmen was marked by their assertive and fearless approach to the game. However, in the early 2000s, the landscape changed with the emergence of Virender Sehwag and Chris Gayle, revolutionizing batting with their explosive and boundary-hitting style. This shift not only redefined the way cricket was played but also set a new benchmark for opening batsmen. However, the question arises: why is there no batsman like Virender Sehwag in the Indian team nowadays?

The Rarity of Great Batting

Many players open grips well and perform admirably in T20 cricket, but they do not receive a fair shake in limited-overs cricket. Similarly, in Test cricket, the value is placed on players who can stay long and handle batting challenges over extended periods. However, in India, there is a strong emphasis on five-day matches, where the ability to accumulate runs and stay resilient is highly valued. This focus highlights a preference for players who can contribute steadily and consistently over extended periods.

Two Major Reasons for the Absence

The world of cricket has evolved, and the absence of a player like Virender Sehwag can be attributed to two primary reasons: guts and courage, and high competition and pressure.

Guts and Courage

Sehwag was known for his fearless approach and his ability to hit boundaries from the very first ball. Unlike many of today's opening batsmen, who tend to play cautiously and then pace their innings, Sehwag’s style was different. He came set from the dugout, ready to hit with abandon. This level of courage and guts among batsmen has waned. Great batsmen like Sehwag, Razin Jayasuriya, Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, and others, had a certain instinct and approach that set them apart. Today, players look to preserve their wickets and play conservatively rather than being bold and proactive.

High Competition and Pressure

Another significant factor is the high level of competition and pressure within the Indian team. In the past, if a player like Sehwag struggled temporarily, the captain might still support him, recognizing his value to the team. However, modern audiences and media scrutiny are much more vocal and immediate. If a player fails to perform consistently, they face immense pressure to perform. This fear of losing one's spot in the team often leads players to play defensively, holding back their natural game. This can be observed in players like Prithvi Shaw, who is capable of playing like Sehwag but might still hold himself back due to fear of criticism and losing his place in the team.

The Future of Indian Cricket

While there may not currently be a player like Virender Sehwag in the Indian team, it is important to recognize that cricket is a dynamic sport, constantly evolving. With time, we will undoubtedly see more batsmen who can bring that fearless and aggressive approach back to the game. The sport is cyclical, and trends come and go, but what remains constant is the passion for extraordinary performances. The Indian cricket team, with its rich history and tradition, is always open to the next great player who can redefine the game once again.