Virender Sehwag makes a Big Statement on the Virat-Kumble feud; Tells Why he Rejected Coaching Offer

Virender Sehwag’s statements have as much clarity as his batting. The legendary batter changed the definition of how openers played in Tests with his brutal hitting. In 2017, he was approached to apply for the India coach’s role as Anil Kumble’s successor. The reason behind this initiative has been recently cleared by Virender Sehwag himself.

“I wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli and then BCCI secretary Amitabh Choudhary hadn’t approached me. We had a meeting, and he (Choudhary) told me that things weren’t working out between Virat Kohli and Anil Kumble we want you to take the coaching position. He told me that Kumble’s contract will expire after the Champions Trophy in 2017 and then you can travel to West Indies with the team,” the former opener said.

Legendary India spinner Anil Kumble’s bitter fallout with the then skipper Virat Kohli is one of the most controversial sagas in Indian cricket. Kumble was head coach of the men’s senior cricket team between 2016-17. Back then, the Cricket Advisory Committee headed by Sachin Tendulkar, Laxman and Ganguly had appointed Kumble as India’s head coach in place of Ravi Shastri.

Virender Sehwag reveals why he rejected the offer

After India’s loss against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2017 final, Anil Kumble stepped down as team India coach. Among the many names doing the rounds at that time to replace Kumble, was also former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag. 

When asked whether he has any regrets for not leading the Indian team, the Nawab of Nazafgarh said he was satisfied with what he had achieved as a cricketer.

“Not at all, I’m happy with what I achieved. Coming from a small family of farmers from Najafgarh I got the opportunity to play for India, got so much love and appreciation from fans and even if I would have captained Team India I would have gotten the same respect,” said Sehwag.

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