Picture Credit: Twitter/BCCI
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag is undoubtedly one of the best Indian Test players of all time. He revealed that even he had to respect the new ball when he played in England back in 2002, smashing a remarkable ton in the 2nd Test. Ahead of the World Test Championship final, the stalwart shared his thoughts on approaching the Dukes ball in England conditions and facing the swing.
“I think when I opened in England for the first time, I was not that attacking. I scored the century off 150-160 balls because in swinging conditions you have to respect the new ball and conditions and I got success,” Sehwag expressed.
Sehwag feels Rohit should be cautious to begin his innings
Given his experience and contribution in Test cricket, Sehwag threw light upon a few aspects and suggested how to approach the Dukes ball. The former cricketer emphasised the fact that Rohit has played a lot of cricket in England and is well aware of the conditions. However, he still needs to respect the conditions and wait for the bad ball.
“But my advice would be to respect the new ball and then he will get the bad balls for which he has to wait. Once he is set after seeing off the first 5 to 10 overs, then it will be easier to play aggressive cricket,” Sehwag suggested.
Kohli should show patience and he should leave a lot of balls: Sehwag
Virender Sehwag further went on to suggest what should be the Indian captain’s approach to facing the swinging ball in England. He feels that the Indian captain should get the bowlers to bowl at him and leave anything that is bowled outside the off-stump. “I think Kohli should show patience and should leave a lot of balls. They must be made to pitch in the line and then he can score,” Sehwag added.