In the world of cricket, the riveting duels between batsman and bowler often leave lasting memories for fans. Such was the case with India’s swashbuckling opener Virender Sehwag and Pakistan’s fearsome fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar. Sehwag, known for his aggressive batting, regarded playing against Akhtar as just another challenge on the field. Despite the Pakistani pacer’s intimidating speed, which included him setting the record for the fastest ball bowled at 161.3 km/hr in the 2003 World Cup, Sehwag faced him with aplomb, tackling his deliveries that often threatened toes and heads. Akhtar did find success against the Indian opener on some occasions, but Sehwag’s strategy seemed to make the most of Akhtar’s pace. In a recent candid conversation, Sehwag revealed the mental game he played during Akhtar’s long run-up, battling impatience and thoughts of the potential delivery outcomes.
These former rivals maintain a friendly rapport post-retirement, as demonstrated by their amusing interactions on social media. Akhtar shared a video online showcasing a light moment with Sehwag, who humorously discussed the anticipation caused by Akhtar’s extended approach to the crease. Referring to the wait as a ‘big distraction,’ Sehwag did not shy away from sharing his inner monologue when facing the Pakistani speedster. This banter reflects the good-natured relationship between the two, who once faced off as fierce competitors representing their national teams. Even after hanging up their boots, both hold impressive records across the Test, One Day International (ODI), and T20 formats, reminding cricket enthusiasts of their respective contributions to the sport.
Akhtar’s social media post hinted at their camaraderie with a light-hearted caption about how Sehwag would wait during his run-up. Their friendship is yet another example of cricket’s power to forge bonds across international lines, uniting athletes in mutual respect and entertainment beyond the boundary. Today, as Sehwag and Akhtar look back on their encounters with smiles, their replicated cricket battles continue to ignite nostalgia among the global cricket community.