Virender Sehwag Reveals His Top 5 ODI Batter (Source: @mipaltan/x.com, @drivexpull/x.com)
Over the years, the limited-over format has ignited fans and produced several cricket talents on the global stage. As the new edition of the Champions Trophy is set to begin, the cricket world is set to witness some more unmatched legacies.
Before the Champions Trophy, Sehwag unveils his top 5 ODI greats of all time featuring some greats all over the world. However, his No. 1 pick is turning heads.
Sehwag’s Top 5 Picks
In Indian cricket, Virender Sehwag is a true superstar of all time. Known for his brilliance cricket, he often leaves his witty remarks which drives fans crazy. As the Champions Trophy is commencing soon, Sehwag unveiled his top 5 ODI batters featuring legends like Gayle, Tendulkar, de Villiers, and others.
“Chris Gayle was a great batsman and opener. I remember India came to the West Indies in 2002-03, and Chris Gayle hit three centuries in a six-match series. He was the first player I saw at the international level who used to hit sixes from the back foot to fast bowlers.” Sehwag said.
“No. 4 is AB de Villiers. I really liked the way he used to play. He’s the only batsman who can hit sixes off-balance. No. 3 is Inzamam-ul-Haq. He’s one of the best ODI players from Asia. Inzamam used to come out to bat at No. 4 and used to control the match.
So, I learnt from him how to take the match to the end. How you can control the match. At that time, it was very difficult to chase seven or eight runs in an over. But Inzamam used to do it with a smile. Because he used to calculate when and who to hit sixes,” he added.
Who Are There In Sehwag’s Top 2 Picks?
After unveiling 3 names, the suspense is still alive as Sehwag;’s top 2 picks are yet to come. In the cricket world, Sachin Tendulkar’s brilliance is known to everyone. In 463 ODI games, he scored 18,426 runs. As his no 2 ODI batter, Sehwag picks his inspiration ‘Master Blaster’.
“Everyone’s favourite and my role model, Sachin Tendulkar. You know how it feels to walk on the ground with him? You’re going to the jungle with a lion. Everyone’s eyes are on the lion. And I used to quietly make my runs.” he said.
Virender Sehwag’s top picks grabbed attention as he named Virat Kohli as his no 1 ODI batter. Undoubtedly, King Kohli is one of the best players of the 50-over format. In 297 ODI matches, he scored 13963 runs with 50 centuries. During the ODI World Cup, he surpassed Tendilkar’s record of scoring 49 centuries in ODIs.
“Virat Kohli is at number one. Virat Kohli jaisa khiladi shayad he aane wale samay mein aisa consistent player aaye jisko ek tag diya gaya hai—Chasemaster. In the beginning, he wasn’t the Virat Kohli who he is today. He also took his time and learnt a lot. And after 2011-12, he has changed a lot. In his fitness and in his consistency. He has played amazing innings.” Sehwag said while revealing his no 1 ODI batter.
As the Champions Trophy is almost here. Team India is set to start their campaign on February 20. Running from a tough time, Kohli is set to face a bigger challenge in the Champions Trophy. Fans are waiting to another new chapter of King Kohli’s legacy.
 "Poulomi Chakraborty")
