Virender Sehwag, the legendary Indian Test opener, has endorsed the idea of youngsters starting their cricket careers with T20 cricket, provided it helps them develop an aggressive mindset that can enhance their Test performances.
Speaking at the launch of the inaugural Delhi Premier League (DPL), Sehwag acknowledged the allure and financial benefits of T20 cricket for young players. However, he emphasized that the evolving nature of Test cricket demands an attacking approach.
“The way England is playing Test cricket, scoring at five runs an over, shows that attacking play is crucial,” Sehwag said. “In our time, Australia scored at four runs per over. I believe that if you can attack, you give your team more chances to win Test matches.”
Sehwag addressed concerns about T20 leagues diverting attention from red-ball cricket, citing his own son’s experience. “My son has played three-day cricket for Delhi U16, but there are many boys waiting for that opportunity,” he said. “When we were young, there was no IPL. Now, youngsters have the IPL and DPL as platforms.”
Sehwag believes that aggressive gameplay can benefit Test cricket. “If anyone develops an aggressive game that suits Test cricket, why not? We want people to come and watch Tests,” he said.
Sehwag’s own aggressive style in Test cricket, even before the advent of the IPL, was evident in his triple century scored in just 270 balls. “Today’s kids might score 400 if they play that many balls,” he quipped.
The DPL will feature six teams and notable players such as Rishabh Pant, Ishant Sharma, and Navdeep Saini. The league has implemented anti-corruption measures and will be aired live on a leading OTT platform with DRS technology.
