I copy Tendulkar's shots: Sehwag

Virender Sehwag has no problems accepting that he tries to emulate the shots played by Sachin Tendulkar who he considers his role model.

"Sachin is my role model and I copy his shots," Sehwag proclaimed proudly, after matching shot for shot with the maestro in the opening wicket partnership as they led India to a comprehensive eight-wicket win over England in the fourth one-day international in Kanpur on Monday.

"Yes, century was in my mind. After I reached my fifty, Sachin told me to start afresh. I did, and kept playing my shots but unfortunately it (the century) didn't happen," Sehwag, who was out for 82, said.

"I tried to make the most of the field restrictions and there was no pressure on me," said the explosive batsman, who smashed 14 boundaries in his 62-ball knock to win the man-of-the match award.

Sehwag's blazing knock won the praise of the captains of both sides.

"He was simply brilliant," said Sourav Ganguly, whose place as an opener can be under threat after Sehwag's continued success in that position.

Asked whether Sehwag can be sent as a regular opener, he replied, "We always keep every option open."

The best compliment came from rival skipper Nasser Hussain. "They (the Indian openers) can hit the ball anywhere in 360 degrees," he said.

"Sehwag is a carefree batsman. He is a fine player and drives the ball well," he added.

England's tour of India : Complete coverage

Mail Cricket Editor