Legendary Virender Sehwag turned 48 on October 20, 2026. Born on October 20, 1978, Sehwag remains one of the most aggressive and fearless batsmen in Indian cricket history.
Sehwag's Test career spanned 104 matches, during which he accumulated 8,586 runs at an average of 49.34. He scored 23 Test centuries and 32 fifties, establishing himself as one of India's most prolific batsmen in the longest format. His ODI career saw him play 251 matches, scoring 8,273 runs at an average of 35.05 with 15 centuries and 38 fifties. In T20 Internationals, he featured in 19 matches and scored 394 runs.
Yuvraj Singh recalls Sehwag's fearless approach and personality
Yuvraj Singh, who shared the dressing room with Sehwag during India's most successful period, recalled the impact the aggressive opener had on his teammates. Singh's message highlighted both Sehwag's fearless batting approach and his engaging personality off the field.
"Pehle Inki batting se bowlers the pareshaan aur ab inki baatein macha deti hain toofan Iss Nawab ka jawab nahi! Happy Birthday Viru lots of love brother and hope you have a lovely year," wrote Yuvraj on Instagram.
Suresh Raina on Sehwag's lasting influence
Raina's tribute underscored how Sehwag transcended the role of a mere teammate to become a lifelong source of inspiration.
"Happy Birthday @virendersehwag Viru paaji. Cricket gives you teammates, but some people become lifelong inspirations. You've been one of those special people in my journey, always motivating me and supporting me along the way. I'll always be grateful for the encouragement, the memories and the bond we share," Suresh Raina said.
"Your fearless approach to the game and your belief in playing with heart will continue to inspire generations. Wishing you endless happiness, great health and all the love you deserve. Lots of love and respect, paaji," he added.
Sehwag's most memorable Test achievement came when he scored a triple century off 278 balls, the fastest triple century in international cricket history. He scored 319 runs against South Africa in 2008, showcasing his ability to dominate world-class bowling attacks. Earlier, in 2004, he had scored his first triple century against Pakistan in Multan, earning the nickname 'Multan Ka Sultan'. Sehwag remains the only Indian cricketer to have scored two triple centuries in Test cricket.
Munaf Patel and BCCI VP extend birthday wishes
Both acknowledged Sehwag's fearless approach to the game and his significant contributions to Indian cricket during his playing career.
"Happy Birthday Virender Sehwag Wishing you a Healthy life ahead @virendersehwag Such a Class Player India got ek dum Nidar," wrote Munaf Patel.
"Heartfelt birthday wishes to former Indian cricketer @virendersehwag. Your fearless batting and splendid gameplay have given Indian cricket many unforgettable moments," Rajeev Shukla said.
Beyond Test cricket, Sehwag made significant contributions in the Indian Premier League. Playing for Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings across the 2008-2015 period, he featured in 104 matches and scored 2,728 runs at an average of 27.55. He struck 2 centuries and 16 fifties in the league, with a best score of 122. His aggressive batting style made him a valuable asset in the shortest format of the game.
Sehwag also contributed with the ball across international cricket, taking 136 wickets in his career. He claimed 40 Test wickets and 96 ODI wickets, proving his value as a genuine all-rounder. His off-spin bowling often provided crucial breakthroughs during India's successful campaigns.
His retirement on October 20, 2015 marked the end of an era for Indian cricket, as he had been a key figure in India's rise as a cricketing powerhouse during the 2000s and early 2010s.
