It was important for me to score runs after Oz tour: Sehwag

Impressive in his return from injury in the first ODI against Sri Lanka, senior Indian opener Virender Sehwag today said it was important for him to get back among runs after below-par performances during the disastrous tour of Australia.

"It was very important for me to score runs and provide a good start to my team. I hadn't scored runs in Australia and this innings is important for me as we will be playing a lot of Tests and ODIs," Sehwag, who came back after recovering from a shoulder injury, told the mediapersons on the eve of second ODI against Sri Lanka.

Although he missed out on a century by just four runs, Sehwag said he was not too concerned about missing the personal milestone as his contribution ultimately made a difference to the team's result.

"It's not important whether I get a big score or not but if I can give a good start and add around 50 to 100 runs for the first wicket, it helps the team. As far as my individual performance is concerned, I hope that I will score one in the next match," said the explosive right-hander.

Sehwag was full of praise for the opening match centurion Virat Kohli who has been in sensational form for the past one year.

"He is a very talented player and has a bright future. The best thing about his batting is that he plays every delivery on its merit," said Sehwag complimenting his Delhi teammate.

Lasith Malinga has been one of the most respected bowlers in the limited overs version but he has been taken to cleaners by Kohli and Co of late. Sehwag attributed this to the advent of Indian Premier League where Malinga has been a regular feature.

"I guess IPL has been a factor. The Indian players have played a lot against Malinga. But that doesn't mean that he is bad bowler. He can destroy any opposition on a given day."

... contd.

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