Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs but Tendulkar’s advice changed his mind
Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs back in 2008, but Sachin Tendulkar’s advice changed the course of his career and Indian cricket history. If Sehwag had taken retirement that year, India might not have had his explosive starts in the 2011 World Cup, where he was one of the heroes of the campaign.
The 2008 Turning Point
In the 2007-08 series against Australia, Sehwag played the first three matches. However, then-captain MS Dhoni decided to drop him due to his poor form. Dhoni replaced him with Robin Uthappa, and India went on to win the tri-series involving Australia and Sri Lanka. Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
Sehwag, who was a match-winner at the top of the order, suddenly found himself out of the team. This decision left him disappointed and emotional. He thought that if he was no longer part of the playing XI, there was no point in continuing ODI cricket. At that moment, Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs.
Tendulkar Steps In
Instead of rushing into a decision, Sehwag went to Sachin Tendulkar for advice. Sehwag told him directly that he was considering retirement. Tendulkar, who himself had faced tough phases in his career, gave him valuable advice. Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
Tendulkar said, “I also went through a similar phase in 1999-2000 when I thought about leaving cricket. But I waited, and the bad phase passed. You are also going through a low period. Do not make a decision when you are emotional. Play a few more series and then decide.” Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
This conversation changed everything. Sehwag listened to Tendulkar, stayed in the ODI team, and went on to become one of India’s most successful openers. Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
Why Sehwag Wanted to Retire from ODIs
Sehwag’s mindset was clear at that time—he was a player who believed in contributing to the team. If he was not in the XI, he felt he was wasting his time. His aggressive style of batting made him a special cricketer, but also a player who struggled with consistency. Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
By 2008, his form was poor, and Dhoni’s call to drop him was a huge blow. That was why Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs. It was Tendulkar’s timely words that convinced him otherwise.
Sehwag’s Role in the 2011 World Cup
The decision to continue turned out to be historic. Sehwag became one of the architects of India’s 2011 World Cup win.
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He scored 380 runs in the tournament at an impressive average of 47.50.
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His explosive starts gave India the momentum in key matches.
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In the opening match against Bangladesh, Sehwag smashed 175 runs, setting the tone for India’s campaign.
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He consistently attacked bowlers in the first few overs, allowing India’s middle order to build big scores.
Without him, India might have struggled to dominate at the start of their innings.
The Importance of Tendulkar’s Advice
This story shows why Sachin Tendulkar is not just the “God of Cricket” for his batting skills but also for his wisdom. He understood the mental struggles that players go through. His advice to Sehwag not only saved Sehwag’s career but also helped Indian cricket. Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
If Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs and had followed through with that decision, India might have missed his impact in 2011. It was Tendulkar’s mentorship that made the difference.
Dhoni’s Big Call
It is also important to look at MS Dhoni’s role. As a captain, Dhoni had to make tough decisions. Dropping a senior opener like Sehwag was never easy. But Dhoni believed in form over reputation. That decision hurt Sehwag, but it also pushed him to think about his career.
In hindsight, it turned out well. Sehwag came back stronger, and by 2011, both Dhoni and Sehwag played defining roles in India’s World Cup win. Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
Lessons from Sehwag’s Story
Sehwag’s experience teaches many lessons for young cricketers and fans:
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Never take big decisions in an emotional state.
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Every player goes through ups and downs. Even legends like Tendulkar and Sehwag had phases of self-doubt.
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Good advice at the right time can change history. Tendulkar’s words saved Sehwag’s ODI career.
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Leadership calls can hurt, but they are part of cricket. Dhoni’s decision pushed Sehwag into a tough phase, but it also led to a comeback story.
Sehwag’s Legacy
Today, Sehwag is remembered as one of the most destructive openers in cricket history. His fearless batting changed the way India approached ODIs and Tests. His 2011 World Cup contribution remains one of the highlights of his career. Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs
But behind this success story lies a moment in 2008 when Sehwag wanted to retire from ODIs. Without Tendulkar’s support, his career might have ended early. Instead, he went on to give Indian fans memories that will last forever.
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