Sanjay Bangar Compares Shafali Verma’s Explosive Batting to Virender Sehwag’s Style in Women’s Asia Cup 2024
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/23rd July 2024
Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar has praised Shafali Verma’s stellar performance in the Women’s Asia Cup 2024, drawing a compelling comparison to the legendary Virender Sehwag. Verma’s explosive batting display against Pakistan has caught the eye of many, including Bangar, who believes her approach to the game mirrors that of Sehwag, known for his aggressive and fearless style.
In a Group A match held on July 19, 2024, the Indian women’s team dismissed Pakistan for a mere 108 runs. Verma’s contribution was pivotal, as she hammered 40 runs off just 29 balls, leading her team to a convincing victory by seven wickets. Her innings, marked by six boundaries and a six, was crucial in securing the win with 35 deliveries to spare.
Bangar, speaking to the media, lauded Verma’s performance, likening it to the destructive batting style of Sehwag, who was renowned for his ability to dismantle bowling attacks with ease. “Whenever I see her bat, I am reminded of Virender Sehwag because she plays like the former India batter,” Bangar remarked. He further highlighted the elegance of Verma’s off-drive, noting that it not only showcased her aggressive approach but also her technical prowess. “She played good strokes against Pakistan. The off-drive was her best shot. It shows that apart from playing an aggressive brand of cricket, she can also strike balls into good areas with proper technique,” Bangar added.
Verma’s innings was instrumental in setting up a strong foundation for the Indian team. Partnering with Smriti Mandhana, she forged a formidable opening stand of 85 runs in just 9.3 overs. This solid partnership was crucial in chasing down the target, and Verma’s ability to find gaps and score freely was a significant factor in the team’s success.
The comparison to Sehwag underscores the impact Verma has made in the women’s game, reminiscent of Sehwag’s influence during his playing days. Known for his aggressive strokes and ability to dominate bowlers, Sehwag set a benchmark for explosive batting in cricket. Verma’s performance in this match highlights her potential to become one of the most exciting players in women’s cricket, following in the footsteps of Sehwag’s legacy.
As the Women’s Asia Cup progresses, Verma’s form will be closely watched by fans and experts alike. Her ability to blend aggressive play with technical skill is a rare combination that could prove to be a game-changer for India. With her current form, she has positioned herself as a key player in the Indian squad and a potential match-winner in the tournament.
In conclusion, Shafali Verma’s impressive knock against Pakistan has earned her accolades from former players like Sanjay Bangar, who see parallels between her style and that of Virender Sehwag. As she continues to make her mark, Verma’s performances are likely to be a focal point of interest, reflecting her growing influence in international women’s cricket.
