Widely regarded as one of the most destructive openers of all time, Virender Sehwag used to put fear in the mind of the bowlers.

While Sehwag was a successful opener across formats, he was particularly impressive in Test cricket. He represented India in 104 Tests, amassing 8586 runs at an average of 49.34 with 23 centuries, including two triple tons. His strike rate of 82.83 in Tests is better than some of great batter’s scoring rate in the shorter formats.

Sehwag also played crucial roles in India's multiple ICC triumphs. Despite all the achievements, the former opener has now revealed that there came a turbulent phase in his career when he came on the verge of retiring from ODIs in 2007/08, only to be persuaded otherwise by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Speaking on Padamjeet Sehrawat's podcast, Sehwag recalled the frustration that set in after being sidelined from the team by then-captain MS Dhoni following the first three matches of the ODI series against Australia.

“In the 2007-08 series against Australia, I played the first three matches and then MS Dhoni dropped me from the side. I wasn't picked for a while after that. Then I felt that if I can't be a part of the playing XI, then there is no point in playing ODI cricket,” Sehwag said.

“I went to Tendulkar and said, ‘I am thinking of retiring from ODIs'. He said, ‘No. I went through a similar phase in 1999-2000, where I felt I should leave cricket. But that phase came and went. You are going through a trough, but it will pass. Don't make any decision when you are emotional. Give yourself some time and 1-2 series, and then take a call,'” he recounted.

Tendulkar’s advice proved to be the turning point as Sehwag returned to the Indian side and produced match-winning performances in the subsequent series. He was part of the team that won the 2011 World Cup at home.

Virender Sehwag ended his career with 251 ODI appearances, amassing 8,273 runs at an average of 35.05, with a strike rate of 104.33, including 15 centuries and 38 fifties.