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Virender Sehwag, one of India’s most famous batsmen, said he will stop playing international cricket. He also quit the Indian Premier League (IPL). He made the announcement on his 37th birthday.
Sehwag Announces Retirement
On 20 October 2015, Sehwag told the media that he is retiring from all forms of international cricket and from the IPL. He said he had planned to retire on his 37th birthday. He added a funny line, quoting Mark Twain: “The report of my retirement yesterday was greatly exaggerated!” He thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans for their love and support.
He made the announcement during the opening of the Masters Champions League (MCL) in Dubai. The MCL was set to start in February 2016, giving Sehwag time to finish his Ranji Trophy duties for Haryana before joining the veterans league.
Career Highlights in Test Cricket
Sehwag played 104 Test matches for India. He scored a total of 8,586 runs. His batting average was 49.34, which is very high for a Test player.
- 23 Test centuries (100+ runs in a single innings)
- 32 Test half‑centuries (50‑99 runs)
- Two triple centuries (300+ runs) – 319 against Pakistan in Multan and 309 against South Africa
The 319 against Pakistan is still the highest individual Test score by an Indian. His last Test match was in March 2013 against Australia in Hyderabad.
One‑Day International (ODI) and T20 Success
In ODIs, Sehwag played 251 matches. He scored 8,273 runs at an average of 35.05.
- 15 ODI centuries
- 38 ODI half‑centuries
His final ODI was in January 2013 against Pakistan in Kolkata.
Sehwag also played 19 Twenty‑20 Internationals (T20Is). He made 394 runs and hit two half‑centuries.
He was part of two Indian World Cup winning squads: the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 in South Africa and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup in India.
Domestic Cricket, IPL and the Masters Champions League
Even after retiring from international cricket, Sehwag kept playing first‑class cricket for Haryana in the Ranji Trophy. This is India’s top domestic competition.
He also announced his retirement from the IPL, the popular T20 league in India. The IPL gave him many exciting moments, but he felt it was time to step away.
After the IPL, Sehwag planned to join the Masters Champions League, a tournament for retired players. The league was scheduled for February 2016, so he could finish his state duties before playing there.
What Retirement Means for Fans
When a star like Sehwag retires, fans may feel sad. But retirement also opens doors for new talent. Young players can now aim for the spots Sehwag once held.
Here are some simple ways fans can stay connected:
- Watch domestic matches like the Ranji Trophy to see upcoming batsmen.
- Follow Sehwag’s commentary or coaching work on TV and online.
- Read his interviews to learn about his cricket philosophy.
- Support the IPL teams that still have strong batting line‑ups.
Sehwag’s humor and powerful hitting will be missed, but his records will stay in cricket history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Virender Sehwag retire at 37?
Sehwag said he had planned to retire on his 37th birthday. He felt his body was not as quick as before and wanted to leave on his own terms.
Did Sehwag retire from all cricket?
No. He retired from international cricket and the IPL, but he kept playing first‑class cricket for Haryana and later joined the Masters Champions League.
What are Sehwag’s biggest records?
He holds the Indian record for the highest Test score (319) and is the only Indian to score two triple centuries in Tests. He also has 23 Test centuries and 15 ODI centuries.
How can fans watch Sehwag now?
Fans can watch him in domestic matches, follow his commentary on sports channels, or see him play in the Masters Champions League.
Conclusion
Virender Sehwag’s retirement marks the end of an exciting era for Indian cricket. His powerful batting, big scores, and love for the game made him a hero for many. While he will no longer play for India or in the IPL, he will still be seen in domestic cricket and veteran leagues. Fans can celebrate his achievements and look forward to the next generation of Indian batsmen.
