'Happily retired' Sehwag enjoying wearing many hats

Chandigarh

"In life, we play different roles at different times. Sometimes, one plays the role of a son, then one becomes father, then grandfather and so on. Likewise, cricket is also connected with life, where you have to fit in a different role, you are a player, then sometimes you become a captain or a coach, mentor etc," Sehwag said as the Kings XI Punjab outfit trained ahead of its opening fixture against Gujarat Lions.

In his inimitable style, Sehwag added, "If you don't get these kind of jobs, the commentary is always there. I am enjoying at the moment. I had a good time (doing commentary) at the World T20."

About Sehwag's cricket commentary, former India cricketer Reetinder Sodhi recently tweeted, "Bro ur commentary has that silken touch of wisdom & simplicity which hits the masses hearts..Its the way u batted".

Sehwag, a veteran of 104 Tests with 23 centuries and 251 ODIs, featured as an opener for KXIP during the previous couple of seasons before turning mentor this year.

On his role as mentor, he said, "I am hoping that I will contribute for Kings XI Punjab whichever way I can. I will motivate the youngsters, give them tips on how to improve their game."

When asked how different will the mentor's role be, Sehwag added, "There is no difference. Look, I am wearing the same jersey, which (KXIP captain David) Miller is wearing (who was sitting next to him), name is same Sehwag on my back, couple of sponsors have changed."

To another question, he said, "I will share my experiences with youngsters, with the team, the strategy and the kind of mindset I have, I think I can share the knowledge of game of cricket, role is same."

He said, "Only thing is I will miss playing cricket, but that I will play in different leagues, but not here in IPL, MCL or other leagues. But now I am happily retired."

West Indian legend Vivian Richards may have lauded Sehwag for his strength by going on record that he hits the ball harder than him. However, when a related question was put to him Sehwag said, "That is not mental toughness, that is clear thinking. You have to react to hit the ball. Mental toughness is that you have to be there and put up consistent performances.