Virender Sehwag Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Records & Achievements
Introduction
Virender Sehwag, fondly called “Viru” and the “Nawab of Najafgarh”, is one of India’s most destructive batsmen. Known for his fearless stroke play, Sehwag redefined opening batting with his attacking mindset. He was the first Indian to score a triple century in Tests and played a pivotal role in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup victories.
Personal Information
Full Name & Birth Details
- Full Name: Virender Sehwag
- Date of Birth: 20 October 1978
- Birthplace: Najafgarh, Delhi, India
Nationality & Zodiac Sign
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 70 kg
- Build: Stocky & Strong
Sehwag was never the fittest athlete but relied on his hand-eye coordination and fearless batting.
Early Life & Family Background
Childhood & Parents
Sehwag was born into a joint Jat family. His father, Krishan Sehwag, was a grain merchant, and his mother, Krishna Sehwag, a homemaker.
Early Passion for Cricket
Inspired by his idol Sachin Tendulkar, Sehwag started batting aggressively from childhood and was encouraged by his family to pursue cricket.
Education Journey
He studied at Arora Vidya School, Delhi, and later graduated from Jamia Millia Islamia University with a degree in commerce.
Introduction to Cricket
Early Training & Coaches
Sehwag honed his skills at Sonnet Cricket Club, Delhi, under coach A. N. Sharma.
Domestic Cricket Career
He debuted for Delhi in Ranji Trophy (1997–98) and soon made headlines with his aggressive batting style.
Rise in International Cricket
- ODI debut in 1999 vs Pakistan.
- Test debut in 2001 vs South Africa, where he scored a century on debut.
- Quickly became India’s most explosive opener.
National Career Highlights
- Played for Delhi in domestic cricket and was the backbone of the side.
- Consistently performed in Ranji and Duleep Trophy matches before cementing his place in the Indian team.
International Career Highlights
Test Career
- Scored 8,586 runs in 104 Tests at an average of 49.34.
- First Indian to score a triple century in Tests (309 vs Pakistan, 2004).
- Scored another triple century (319 vs South Africa, 2008).
- Known for his aggressive starts, even in Tests.
ODI Career
- Scored 8,273 runs in 251 ODIs, including 15 centuries.
- Best remembered for his 219 vs West Indies in 2011, the then-highest ODI score.
- Played key roles in 2003 WC final run and 2011 WC victory.
T20 Career
- Represented India in 19 T20Is, part of the 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team.
IPL Career
- Played for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) and Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings).
- Scored over 2,700 IPL runs, including a match-winning 122 in 2014 IPL playoffs.
Records & Milestones
- First Indian to score a Test triple century.
- One of only four players in history with two Test triple centuries.
- Highest ODI score (219) at the time, second only to Tendulkar’s 200*.
- Over 17,000 international runs (Tests + ODIs + T20Is).
Awards & Honors
- Arjuna Award (2002).
- Padma Shri (2010).
- ICC Test Player of the Year (2008).
- Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World (2008, 2009).
Beyond Cricket
After retirement, Sehwag became a commentator, cricket analyst, mentor, and social media personality. His witty Twitter posts and humor have earned him a massive following.
Personal Life
Virender Sehwag married Aarti Ahlawat in 2004, and the couple has two sons, Aryavir and Vedant.
Legacy & Inspiration
Sehwag’s fearless style transformed Indian cricket. He showed that Test openers could attack bowlers from the very first ball. His record-breaking innings and entertaining approach made him a fan favorite and a true cricketing legend.
FAQs about Virender Sehwag
Q1: When was Virender Sehwag born?
A: 20 October 1978, in Najafgarh, Delhi.
Q2: Why is Virender Sehwag famous?
A: For being India’s most destructive opener and the first Indian to score a triple century in Tests.
Q3: What is Sehwag’s highest ODI score?
A: 219 vs West Indies (2011).
Q4: How many Test triple centuries has Sehwag scored?
A: Two (309 vs Pakistan, 319 vs South Africa).
Q5: Did Sehwag win the World Cup?
A: Yes, he was part of India’s 2007 T20 WC and 2011 ODI WC winning squads.
Q6: What awards has Sehwag received?
A: Arjuna Award, Padma Shri, and ICC Test Player of the Year (2008).
