In October 2017, the Delhi & District Cricket Association honoured Virender Sehwag, one of India's greatest match-winners, by inaugurating a gate in his name at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium. The gesture celebrated a legend known for redefining Test opening with two triple-centuries and being a vital member of two World Cup-winning squads. Nearly seven years later, that very same ground set the stage for the debut of his elder son, Aaryavir, in the Delhi Premier League (DPL).
Aaryavir's opportunity came with the Central Delhi Kings, a team enjoying a successful season. He was brought in to replace regular opener Yash Dhull, who had left to join the North Zone team for the Duleep Trophy 2025. The team management needed a player who could maintain their winning momentum at the top of the order and entrusted Aaryavir with the responsibility in a crucial match against an equally strong opponent, the East Delhi Riders.
All eyes were on Aaryavir as he walked out to open the innings on August 27. During his time at the crease, he showcased a natural flair, with some of his shots reminiscent of his legendary father. While his score of 22 off 16 balls was not substantial, the confidence he displayed was unmistakable. His brisk start helped Central Delhi post 155/6, a total that proved to be a winning one. Following the match, Aaryavir addressed the media, revealing when he was informed about his debut.
“After the last game [I got to know that I will play the next one]. I took that catch in the previous match. After the game ended, Jonty [Sidhu] bhaiyya told me that I would play the next match," Aaryavir told News18 CricketNext.
Initially, the 17-year-old began his innings with a cautious approach. However, he quickly changed his strategy and took on Navdeep Saini, a bowler with 11 T20Is to his name. The young batsman smashed two consecutive boundaries off Saini's bowling. He first lofted a shot over the covers, and then, stepping out of his crease, he created space and hammered the next ball through the extra cover region. This aggressive play, which yielded 12 runs in a single over, rattled Saini early in the match.
Aaryavir Sehwag on father Virender Sehwag’s honest feedback
After hitting those two boundaries, his confidence soared and he seemed much more relaxed. He then gave the same treatment to another East Delhi bowler, Raunak Waghela, hitting him for two more consecutive boundaries. As he prepares for the playoffs, Aaryavir intends to get feedback from his father, a player who was known for his power-hitting abilities in all formats of the game. He often turns to his father for guidance.
“It felt good. The first two boundaries gave me confidence and helped me settle in. But the innings wasn’t that long. I will try to stay longer in the middle next time. Absolutely. Jab father sahab bolenge to sunna to padega hi (I have to listen to my father)," Aaryavir signed off.