Mumbai, October 6, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former India opener Virender Sehwag has credited former captain Sourav Ganguly with transforming the Indian cricket team into a fearless unit, saying the legendary skipper encouraged players to respond to opponents on their own terms.
Sehwag, who is hosting the second season of the streaming reality show Rise & Fall, made the remarks while speaking to IANS during the show’s promotions in Mumbai.
Recalling Ganguly’s leadership, Sehwag said the former captain had a simple approach: India would play the game in the same manner as its opponents, neither backing down nor overstepping.
“I would say the entire credit should go to Dada for making a fearless team. When he took over the reins as the captain, he clearly told us that we will play the game that opponent plays,” Sehwag said.
“If the Australians sledge us, we will also sledge back. If someone shows us love and respect on the field, we will reciprocate that. So, I would say dada is one of the chief architects of the Indian cricket team,” he added.
Sehwag had earlier spoken about the philosophy of the Indian team during Ganguly’s captaincy, saying the focus was on winning as many matches as possible on foreign soil.
Meanwhile, Sehwag has taken over the hosting duties for the second season of Rise & Fall, replacing Ashneer Grover.
The reality series features 15 contestants competing over 42 days in a game centred on power, strategy, alliances and changing fortunes. Contestants are divided into Rulers, who control the game from the Tower, and Workers, who live in the Basement and compete for opportunities to move up.
The second season also introduces greater audience participation, with viewers given the power to influence who becomes a Ruler or Worker.
Produced by Banijay Asia, Rise & Fall is streaming on Amazon MX Player.
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