Virender Sehwag, nicknamed the ‘Nawab of Najafgarh,’ was a dominant right-handed opening batsman for India and a key figure in their 2007 and 2011 World Cup victories.
Virender Sehwag stands as a distinguished cricketer who consistently batted as a right-handed top-order player for the Indian national squad. He earned the nickname ‘Nawab of Najafgarh’ due to his explosive and fearless batting approach during matches. Sehwag’s international career began with his first One Day International appearance in 1999 against Pakistan. He played a pivotal role in India’s triumphs at the 2007 and 2011 ICC Cricket World Cups. His performances spanned both international matches and domestic leagues, contributing significantly to multiple championship wins. Virender Sehwag follows the Hindu faith and embraces its traditions and principles. Hailing from a rural agricultural background, he maintains strong ties to his heritage. He often expresses his devotion on social media and through visits to various sacred temples. The cricketer known as the ‘Nawab of Najafgarh’ was raised in a close-knit and supportive family from Najafgarh. His parents recognized his passion for cricket early on and ensured he had everything needed to pursue the sport. Sehwag has two sisters and one brother, all of whom were raised together under the same roof. His parents instilled in him strong moral values and discipline, which became cornerstones of his professional journey. Sehwag’s father, Krishan Sehwag, was a modest grain merchant based in Delhi. He played an active role in nurturing his son’s cricketing aspirations by regularly taking him to practice sessions at the ground, thus laying the groundwork for Sehwag’s future success. Krishna Sehwag, his mother and an Arjuna Award recipient, worked as a homemaker. She stood by him as a constant source of emotional support throughout his career. Krishna provided him with affection and sound advice, which proved invaluable in shaping his path. Vinod Sehwag, Sehwag’s brother, has been an integral part of his life and sports journey. Vinod would join his brother during practice and train alongside him at home, serving as both a companion and motivator. Former Indian batsman Virender Sehwag has two older sisters named Manju and Anju. Anju Sehwag initially worked as an educator before transitioning into politics. The siblings share a deep and affectionate bond, having grown up together in a caring and encouraging home environment. Virender Sehwag wore jersey numbers 44, 46, and later 2 during his career. He adjusted his jersey number several times based on family guidance and numerological beliefs. Ultimately, he chose to play without a jersey number to bring clarity and mental peace to his game. Virender Sehwag, recipient of the Padma Shri, was in a long-standing romance with Aarti Ahlawat, who later became his wife. They had known each other since childhood, and their close bond naturally evolved into marriage. Aarti provided unwavering support throughout his cricketing career, often cheering him on during crucial matches. Aarti Ahlawat, Sehwag’s wife, is a successful entrepreneur serving as a director for four different companies. The couple exchanged vows on April 22, 2004, in an intimate wedding ceremony. Together, they are parents to two sons— Aryavir, born in 2007, and Vedant, born in 2010. The family lives harmoniously, supporting one another in all their endeavors. Known as the ‘Nawab of Najafgarh,’ Virender Sehwag made his ODI debut on April 1, 1999, against Pakistan. He played his first Test match against South Africa on November 3, 2001, and his inaugural T20I appearance against South Africa on December 1, 2006. Sehwag holds the unique distinction of being the only Indian cricketer to record two Test triple centuries and also holds the record for the fastest triple century in Test cricket. He was part of the Indian team that claimed victory in the 2007 and 2011 ICC World Cups. Over his international career, Sehwag amassed 38 centuries and 70 half-centuries. He featured in 104 ODIs, scoring 8,586 runs at a strike rate of 82.23. In 251 Test matches, he compiled 8,273 runs with a strike rate of 104.33. Virender Sehwag has accumulated numerous accolades and honors throughout his cricketing career. In 2002, he received the Arjuna Award, and in 2007, he was presented with the Polly Umrigar Award for his outstanding performances. He consecutively earned two Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World awards, becoming the first Indian to achieve this feat. In 2010, Sehwag was bestowed with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor. The same year, he was named ICC Test Player of the Year. In 2017, he was honored by the Delhi & District Cricket Association, with Gate No. 2 of DDCA being renamed in his honor. In 2008, he achieved the fastest Test triple century, scoring 319 runs off 278 balls. Virender Sehwag is an Indian cricketer who served as a top-order batsman for the national team. What is Virender Sehwag’s age and birthday? Virender Sehwag was born on October 20, 1978, and as of 2026, he is 46 years old. Virender Sehwag is a seasoned cricketer standing at 5 feet 8 inches in height. Virender Sehwag is married to Aarti Ahlawat, and they tied the knot in 2004. How many centuries has Virender Sehwag scored? Virender Sehwag has scored a total of 38 international centuries during his career. What is Virender Sehwag’s net worth and salary? Virender Sehwag’s estimated net worth is around $42 million, translating to approximately ₹350 crore. What is Virender Sehwag’s jersey number? Virender Sehwag has worn jersey numbers 44, 46, and 2 at different times before opting to play without a jersey number. What are Virender Sehwag’s career achievements? Virender Sehwag is among the rare batsmen to record two triple centuries in Test cricket and was a member of the Indian team that won the 2007 and 2011 Cricket World Cups. All images used are for editorial purposes only. License solely with Getty/Source.