'I have had many falls in my life' - Virender Sehwag on setbacks and comebacks

Virender Sehwag has experienced multiple turning points throughout his international cricket career, each marked by periods of exclusion followed by determined returns to the team. The former Indian opener has now taken on a new role as host of Rise & Fall Season 2, a show that explores stories of success and struggle. The programme premieres on September 26, 2026, and will stream for free on Prime Video and the MX Player Android app, with new episodes arriving every day at 12 noon IST for a 42-day run.

Sehwag takes over hosting duties from Ashneer Grover, who led the first season. In discussing his own experiences with professional setbacks, Sehwag has opened up about the pattern of falls and recoveries that defined his playing career.

"I think I have had many falls in my life. I played my first match in 1999, and then I was dropped. That was my fall. Then I came back in 2001. I was dropped again in 2006-2007. That was also my fall. I couldn't go on the England Tour in 2007-2008," said Sehwag.

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Early career setbacks and the path to comeback

The opener's first international appearance came in 1999, when he scored 104 in his Test debut. Sachin Tendulkar was batting alongside him in that match and made 155. That early success was followed by his removal from the squad, a setback that tested his resolve as a young player. His return in 2001 marked the beginning of a more sustained period in the team, though further challenges lay ahead.

Between 2006 and 2007, Sehwag faced another period outside the Indian team. The exclusion extended through the England tour of 2007-2008, a significant series that he missed entirely. Rather than accept this as the end of his career, Sehwag used the time away to strengthen his fitness and prepare for a potential return.

"I still remember that time. I utilised the time to improve my fitness so that I could play longer in the comeback of the Indian team. Then I came back in 2008. Then I made my second triple century," Sehwag said.

Partnerships with Sachin Tendulkar and lessons learned

Throughout his career, Sehwag formed significant partnerships with Tendulkar, his senior and guide in the Indian batting lineup. The two batsmen shared multiple century stands and double-century partnerships during their time together in the team. Sehwag credited Tendulkar's influence during his early years in international cricket.

"I have done several partnerships with Sachin Tendulkar. We have done 100 and double 100. I scored a 100 in my test debut, and Sachin was playing with me at that time. He guided me a lot. He made 155, and I made 104," Sehwag said.

"We have seen a lot of falls together. A typical fall for me was whenever he didn't play. Take inspiration from Sachin Tendulkar. It is difficult to be like him. One can't give the performance and hard work that he did. Take inspiration from him and create your name," he added.

Sehwag accepted the hosting opportunity while working in the Indian Premier League. The Amazon Prime team approached him to host the show after he reviewed their clips and presentations. His experience as an IPL commentator gave him confidence in the role.

"I got the opportunity when I was in the IPL. The Amazon Prime team contacted me and asked if I could host the show. I saw some of their clips and their presentations. I thought maybe I could do it. I also talk a lot when I comment on IPL," Sehwag concluded.