Cricket is connected with life where you have to fit in different roles: Virender Sehwag

Retired India opener Virender Sehwag is currently enjoying wearing many hats. The swashbuckling batsman, who once used to rip apart bowling attacks, now spends splits his time as a commentator, analyst, and mentor of IPL franchise Kings XI Punjab.

“In life, we play different roles at different times. Sometimes, one plays the role of a son, then one becomes father, then grandfather and so on. Likewise, cricket is also connected with life, where you have to fit in a different role, you are a player, then sometimes you become a captain or a coach, mentor etc,” Sehwag said as the Kings XI Punjab outfit trained ahead of its opening fixture against Gujarat Lions.

In his inimitable style, Sehwag added, “If you don’t get these kind of jobs, the commentary is always there. I am enjoying at the moment. I had a good time (doing commentary) at the World T20.”

Sehwag played as an opener for KXIP during the last couple of seasons before turning mentor this year. He also commented on his role as mentor of the team.

“I am hoping that I will contribute for Kings XI Punjab whichever way I can. I will motivate the youngsters, give them tips on how to improve their game,” he said.

Sehwag, a veteran of 104 Tests with 23 centuries and 251 ODIs, says that he feels no difference in being a mentor or a player.

“There is no difference. Look, I am wearing the same jersey, which (KXIP captain David) Miller is wearing (who was sitting next to him), name is same Sehwag on my back, couple of sponsors have changed.”

“I will share my experiences with youngsters, with the team, the strategy and the kind of mindset I have, I think I can share the knowledge of game of cricket, role is same. Only thing is I will miss playing cricket, but that I will play in different leagues, but not here in IPL, MCL or other leagues. But now I am happily retired.”