Virender Sehwag scores quick 136 against defending Ranji Trophy champions Karnataka
Two days after announcing his retirement, Virender Sehwag made a strong statement scoring a quick fire 136 against defending Ranji Trophy Champions Karnataka today. The veteran batsmen walked into the crease with Haryana dwindling at 53 for two. However, some big hitting from India’s former opener has seen Haryana make a comeback into the round 4 match. He took 170 balls to reach his score.
After being put into bat, Karnataka pacer Sharath H S picked up an early wicket dismissing Haryana opener Rahul Dewan for nine runs. Haryana registered a third wicket partnership of 35 runs, before David Mathias took the wicket of C K Bishnoi, with his team registering only 53 runs on the board.
Sehwag began lambasting the bowling as soon as he reached the crease. With 16 fours and three sixes, the 37-year old reached his century, in just 119 balls, reminding fans that his retirement doesn’t signal and end of his ability. He received some good support from Jayant Yadav at the other end. Yadav scored a century off 173 balls, giving Sehwag the license to go for the big shots.
In an attempt to cut the ball beyond point, Sehwag gave away his wicket, much to the disappointment of the fans. However, Sehwag’s performance has put Karnataka on the backfoot for the first time in this year’s Ranji Trophy. Prior to the game, Sehwag himself accepted how difficult this game would be. He said, “First game after my retirement against Ranji Champions. Wow.”
Several former players including Sunil Gavaskar had come out in support of Sehwag, stating that he deserved one last opportunity before his retirement. Haryana are currently bottom of Group A having registered one point, whereas Ranji heavyweights Karnataka are currently fourth. Sehwag’s performance just might lead Haryana to win their first game of this campaign.
Sehwag had been looking forward to his first game since officially confirming his retirement from international cricket and the IPL on Tuesday and had taken to social media to make his thoughts known ahead of the match today.
After today’s knock it won’t be surprising to see Sehwag come up with another similar Tweet.