Virender Sehwag on raising cricketer sons: ‘You will always be compared to your father’

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag discussed how he prepares his sons to handle the comparisons they'll face as cricketers, given their father's status in the sport. Both sons, Aryavir and Vedant, play cricket at Under-19 and Under-16 levels respectively. Sehwag explained that he teaches his children from a young age that they will be compared to their father, experience criticism and receive more praise in return, as many people admire their father.

Sehwag emphasized that children should focus on doing what they can without worrying about comparisons. He highlighted that while comparison can lead to pressure, anxiety, and low self-esteem if not addressed, openly discussing the issue with children helps reduce overthinking and makes them realize that comparison is something they can handle together.

Puja Dutta, a senior clinical psychologist, added that children might fear failure, avoid taking risks, or feel disappointed if they don't match their parents' achievements. Dutta suggested that parents should talk about comparison early, let children express their feelings, remind them that their journey is unique, and share their own struggles to make success feel more attainable.

Sehwag also mentioned teaching his sons the value of money through their earnings as cricketers, which helps them understand its importance.