Virender Sehwag, fondly known as the ‘Nawab of Najafgarh,’ was an aggressive and fearless Indian opening batsman who left a lasting impact on the world of cricket. His style of play was unparalleled, characterized by his ability to dominate bowlers from the outset of an innings.
Virender Sehwag’s legacy in cricket is etched in the record books, showcasing his immense talent and fearless approach to the game. His aggressive style of play revolutionized opening batting, and his records continue to inspire aspiring cricketers around the world. Sehwag will forever be remembered as one of the greatest entertainers and match-winners in the history of the sport.
During his illustrious career, Sehwag set numerous records that stand as a testament to his batting prowess and unique approach to the game. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 records held by the legendary Virender Sehwag.
1. 7,500-plus Runs in Both Tests and ODIs as an Opener
Sehwag stands alone as the only batsman in cricket history to achieve the milestone of scoring over 7,500 runs in both Test and ODI formats while opening the batting. This highlights his consistency and adaptability in different formats.
2. Fastest Test Triple Century
One of Sehwag’s most memorable innings came against South Africa in 2008, when he smashed a blistering triple century in just 278 balls. This breathtaking innings showcased his aggressive intent and ability to tear apart bowling attacks.
3. Highest Test Score at a 100-plus Strike Rate
Scoring a monumental 319 runs against South Africa in 2008, Sehwag set the record for the highest-ever Test score at a strike rate exceeding 100, displaying his incredible ability to score rapidly without compromising on big scores.
4. Leading the Team’s Run Tally While Carrying the Bat Through a Test Innings
Sehwag and Graham Gooch are the only batsmen to achieve the remarkable feat of contributing more than 60% of their team’s total runs while carrying the bat through a completed Test innings, exemplifying their ability to shoulder the batting responsibility single-handedly.
5. Most Triple Centuries in Tests
Sehwag is one of four cricketers, alongside Don Bradman, Brian Lara, and Chris Gayle, to have scored two triple centuries in Test cricket, showcasing his ability to convert big scores into massive ones.
6. Most 290+ Scores in Tests
He also shares the record with Don Bradman for scoring the highest number of scores above 290 in Test cricket, demonstrating his propensity for big scores.
7. Double Century Partnerships in Consecutive Test Innings
Sehwag stands as the only cricketer to be part of two consecutive double-century partnerships in Test innings, a feat he has achieved twice in his career.
8. Scoring Two Triple Centuries and Taking a Five-Wicket Haul in an Innings
Sehwag’s versatility extended beyond batting, as he is the only cricketer in Test history to have scored two triple centuries and also taken a five-wicket haul in an innings.
9. Highest Test Batting Strike Rate Among 2,000-plus Test Run Scorers
With a strike rate higher than any other cricketer who scored 2,000-plus Test runs, Sehwag epitomized aggressive batting in the longest format of the game.
10. Converting 11 Successive Test Hundreds into 150+ Scores
Sehwag’s remarkable ability to convert centuries into even more substantial scores is evident from his streak of converting 11 successive Test hundreds into 150+ scores, a testament to his exceptional batting prowess.
