Aaryavir Sehwag made his India U19 debut against Australia U19 in Rajkot in a one-dayer.
Before his India U19 call-up, the 18-year-old played in the Delhi Premier League, featuring in two matches for the West Delhi Lions. His scores for India U19 were 28, 47, and 34 against Australia U19 in Rajkot.
"I couldn't build a big innings in all three matches, despite getting starts. In the final game, I also got out trying to hit a six after a good start. So, I was quite disappointed. I've learned that you have to divide the game into different phases and build long innings if you want to score big runs. If you want to make a name and earn respect in the cricket fraternity, big runs matter,” Aaryavir told Sportstar.
Aaryavir also talked about his famous surname and said that he knows his surname and father will bring a lot of focus on him, and opponents might use it to put pressure on him.
"I am quite proud of my surname and my father's achievements. I don't feel any pressure or burden because of my father's name. I am quite proud of what he has done for India. I am trying to create a mindset where I tell myself that people's comments are just their opinions, and they don't affect me much, whether they are good or bad, whether they are praising me or criticizing me. I will try to keep a cool head and focus only on my process and my batting. That is better,” Aaryavir said.
The right-handed batter and leg-spinner also talked about his experience of playing against Australia U19.
"Honestly, the first match was quite broken up. The rain lasted for four to five hours. So, obviously, there were nerves before my debut match. Then, because of the rain and everything, we had to sit around, and our bodies also cooled down quite a bit. The Australian bowlers were bowling at a good pace. I enjoyed playing against them, so obviously this increased my confidence," he said.
Aaryavir also revealed his father's advice.
"He always tells me that batting should be kept very simple: if there is a ball you can hit, hit it. If you can leave it, you should leave it. And if you have to defend it, you should defend it. Dad tells me to focus more on the mental aspect than on technique because, obviously, there is so much being said on social media," he said.
Aaryavir also revealed that he was a big fan of Virat Kohli and recalled meeting him.
"I have been a very big fan of him (Kohli). I have met him two or three times, and it was a very good experience,” Aaryavir Sehwag said.
(Sportstar inputs)