Dhoni Dropped Me from ODI Side in 2007-08, I Told Sachin ‘I am Thinking of Retiring’: Sehwag
Virender Sehwag, the former Indian opener, has made a stunning claim that Mahendra Singh Dhoni dropped him from the ODI side during the 2007-08 period. According to Sehwag, after being dropped, he confided in Sachin Tendulkar about his plans to retire from ODI cricket, but the legendary batsman advised him against making emotional decisions.
Sehwag’s claim has sent shockwaves in the cricket fraternity, with many fans and experts eager to know more about the circumstances surrounding his alleged drop from the team. In an interview, Sehwag revealed that he was frustrated and demotivated after being left out of the team, and that he felt like he was no longer needed.
“I was dropped from the ODI side in 2007-08, and I told Sachin that I was thinking of retiring from ODI cricket,” Sehwag said. “But Sachin advised me against making emotional decisions. He told me that I had been a part of the team for so long, and that I had achieved so much. He said that I should not let my emotions get the better of me.”
Sehwag’s decision to confide in Sachin was not surprising, given the respect and admiration he had for the master batsman. The two had formed a formidable opening partnership for India, and their on-field rapport was legendary. Sehwag has often spoken about the valuable advice Sachin gave him during his career, and it’s clear that he held him in high esteem.
However, Sehwag’s claim has raised questions about the nature of his relationship with Dhoni during that period. While Dhoni was still a relatively new captain, Sehwag was an established player and a key member of the team. The fact that Dhoni dropped him from the team has sparked speculation about their dynamics, and whether Sehwag’s demotion was a result of personal differences or a lack of form.
Sehwag’s decision to play on and not retire from ODI cricket was ultimately vindicated, as he went on to have a successful career and played a key role in India’s World Cup victory in 2011. In fact, Sehwag was a vital member of the team during the 2011 World Cup, scoring 454 runs at an average of 45.40. His partnership with Sachin and Gautam Gambhir was instrumental in India’s success, and he played a crucial role in the team’s victory in the final.
Sehwag’s claims have also sparked debate about the treatment of senior players in the Indian team. While Sehwag was an established player, he was still dropped from the team, which raises questions about the team’s priorities and the way senior players are handled. The Indian team has a history of dropping senior players, often citing the need for younger players to gain experience. However, Sehwag’s claim highlights the emotional toll that such decisions can have on players, and the importance of handling such situations with sensitivity and empathy.
In conclusion, Sehwag’s claim about being dropped from the ODI side in 2007-08 and contemplating early retirement is a shocking revelation that has sent shockwaves in the cricket fraternity. While his decision to confide in Sachin was a testament to their strong bond, it also highlights the importance of emotional support and guidance for players. Sehwag’s ultimate decision to play on and have a successful career is a testament to his resilience and determination, and serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
