Former cricketer Virender Sehwag has shared a shocking incident from his playing days involving former India head coach John Wright. During a match against England in 2004, Sehwag was dismissed early, and Wright lost his temper, approaching the opener and pulling him by the collar.

Recalling the incident, Sehwag expressed his anger and reported the incident to the then-manager Rajiv Shukla. Rajiv Shukla and Amrit Mathur intervened, helping to resolve the issue and facilitate reconciliation between Sehwag and Wright.

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Speaking at the launch of former BCCI General Manager Amrit Mathur’s book ‘Pitchside: My life in Indian cricket,’ Sehwag said, “I was pushed around by John Wright in the 2004 England tour. He pulled me by my collar after I got out cheaply. I was very angry and said to Rajiv Shukla, ‘How can a gora hit me.’ Later Amrit Mathur and Rajiv Shukla got me and Wright to patch up.”

Despite the heated incident, Virender Sehwag and Wright maintained a positive camaraderie and continued to share a good relationship. Sehwag went on to become one of the finest openers in Indian cricket history, representing the national team in 104 Tests, 251 ODIs, and 19 T20Is. He amassed 8586, 8273, and 394 runs, respectively, in each format. The explosive batsman played a vital role in India’s triumphant campaign in the 2011 ODI World Cup.

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Interestingly, under Wright’s coaching, India reached the finals of the 2003 World Cup but faced defeat against Australia. It took Sehwag eight long years to finally lift the prestigious trophy in 2011.

Despite the altercation, Virender Sehwag’s exceptional talent and significant contributions to Indian cricket remain cherished memories, and he continues to be an icon in the sport.