Indian opener Virender Sehwag, known for his witty remarks, engaged in a friendly banter with legendary Pakistani pacer Shoaib Akhtar. Despite the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan, off the field, Sehwag and Akhtar share a great camaraderie. Recently, Sehwag had a humorous response to Akhtar’s remark about his hair, giving the former on-field nemesis a taste of his own medicine.

During an episode of the YouTube show, Breakfast with Champions, Sehwag was asked about the banter with Akhtar and whether there was any friendship behind it.

Virender Sehwag replied, “Where there is love, there is banter or where there is friendship. With Shoaib Akhtar, I have had a deep friendship since 2003-04. We have visited each other’s countries, and there’s friendship where we pull each other’s leg too.”

ALSO READ: Aakash Chopra opines on Ben Stokes’ role for CSK in IPL 2023

Sehwag then cleverly responded to Akhtar’s previous statement about having more money than the number of hair strands Sehwag has on his head. “Now my hair strands are more than your notes. That tagline would be cool for ‘Breakfast with Champions’,” Sehwag added.

The banter between Sehwag and Akhtar dates back to 2016 when Sehwag criticized Akhtar for speaking about Indian cricket and cricketers. In response, Akhtar made the “hair” remark, stating that he had more wealth than Sehwag had hair on his head. However, the friendly banter between the two players demonstrates their deep-rooted friendship despite the fierce rivalry between their respective countries. 

ALSO READ: Dilip Vengsarkar says Virat Kohli “will be a crucial factor for India’s chances in the WTC final”

The lighthearted exchange between Sehwag and Akhtar showcases the playful side of their relationship, adding an extra dose of entertainment to the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry. It reminds fans that beyond the intense competition on the field, there can be mutual respect and camaraderie between players from rival teams.