Virender Sehwag has asked supporters and the media to stop measuring the sons of cricketing greats against their fathers, arguing that young players need room to build their own careers.
Speaking to NDTV, the former India opener accepted that comparisons are unavoidable when the children of famous players enter the game. But he said youngsters should be given time to find their own identity rather than be judged against their fathers’ records.
The case of Arjun Tendulkar
Sehwag pointed to Arjun Tendulkar, son of Sachin Tendulkar. Arjun has developed into a fast-bowling all-rounder and has delivered notable domestic performances, including a Ranji Trophy century and a five-wicket haul. Sehwag said it is not fair to compare him with Sachin, and that Arjun should be allowed to develop his own style.
A view from his own household
Sehwag also drew on personal experience. His 18-year-old son Aaryavir has played for India at Under-19 level, so the former batter knows the weight of expectation that comes with the surname.
He said young players can feel upset when their performances are constantly set against what their fathers achieved. Aaryavir has only just started out, Sehwag said, while he himself had a long career of contributions to his team, so comparing the two does not make sense. Players should first be allowed to play and achieve something, he added, before comparisons begin.
Aaryavir’s recent form
Aaryavir recently played in India’s Under-19 one-day series against Australia Under-19, scoring 109 runs over three matches as India won 3-0.
Sehwag’s comments highlight a wider challenge for young cricketers carrying a famous name: they need the chance to build their own skills and reputations before they are measured against anyone else.
