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The cricketing fraternity has paid glorious tributes to just-retired Virender Sehwag with India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni leading from the front,
comparing his destructive batting with that of legendary Viv Richards.
"Didn't see Viv Richards bat in person but I can proudly say I have witnessed Virender Sehwag tearing apart the best bowling attacks," Dhoni wrote in his twitter handle.
"Talent in batting is one thing but to have the mindset of Virupa in batting is as close to impossible as it can get. We keep saying be positive. Look for a single but he was one person who was always looking for a boundary. Many will try to play like you but my advice would be to enjoy your (batting),"
he said.
"Batting and be themselves. Congrats on a fantastic career," the India limited overs captain added. Sehwag, one of the world's most destructive batsmen to have played the game, announced his retirement from international cricket and the Indian Premier League, bringing an end to an illustrious career spanning 14 years.
'Thanks for the guidance and the memories'
Sehwag had already hinted about his imminent retirement at a function in Dubai on Monday and chose his 37th birthday on Tuesday to put an end to his amazing career and said he was grateful to have done things his way. India Test skipper Virat Kohli, who started his career along aside Sehwag in Delhi Ranji team, termed the dashing right-hander as a "modern day legend".
"Pleasure to have played with you @virendersehwag bhai. What an amazing career. Thanks for the guidance and the memories. Modern day legend!" Kohli tweeted.
Sehwag's another Delhi teammate Shikhar Dhawan wrote: "The original opener; the dare devil. Congratulations @virendersehwag paaji on a wonderful journey & all the best for the future. Rab Raakha."
Former India batsman VVS Laxman also tweeted: "Congrats bratha @virendersehwag on a fabulous career. A pure entertainer who gave us soo much joy. Thanks for all the gr8 memories #LEGEND," wrote Dhawan.
'Clear thinking and attacking stroke play has been hallmark of your batting'
India off-spinner Ashwin Ravichandran wrote: "Clear thinking and entertainment were things he used as his weapon. A thorough entertainer,congrats on a wonderful career."
"The legend I played with. The miracle I had the fortune of knowing. The most spectacular ever. Will miss u," tweeted Suresh Raina. Zaheer Khan, who himself announced his retirement last week, said Sehwag's mindset while batting separated him from the rest.
"Clear thinking and attacking stroke play has been hallmark of your batting! thank u @virendersehwag for grt memories & wonderful friendship," wrote Zaheer.
"Salute salute salute Salute to the Legend @virendersehwag wish you and family the best for future. Go well brother," posted Harbhajan Singh.
'Nobody batted like you at the top'
The tributes kept pouring in for the Delhi dasher.
"Nobody batted like you at the top.Congrats on a great career.Great team man.Best wishes to ur 2nd inngs," said spin great Anil Kumble. Another former spinner Bishan Bedi wrote: "VSehwag played all his uncomplicated Crkt on his terms & he leaves the scene too on his terms..on Twitter!He'd be Victor Trumper of India!!"
"There was rural aura of VSehwag which endeared him 2 masses & he created same fear in opposition as STendulkar!Hail "Wishing Viru Happy B'day/Retirement on the same day is rare greeting-almost as rare as his ability 2 decimate bowlers globally-on his terms!" Bedi added.
Australia opener David Warner, who was Sehwag's opening partner for Delhi Daredevils in the IPL, wrote: "Well done on your career legend. Been a privilege to play with and against you. Catch up soon."