Sehwag Explains Delhi's Decision to Choose Sangwan Over Kohli in IPL 2008
Synopsis
In a recent revelation, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag explains why Delhi Daredevils opted for Pradeep Sangwan over Virat Kohli during the 2008 IPL auction, citing an abundance of top-order batsmen and a shortage of bowlers as the deciding factors.
Key Takeaways
Virender Sehwag's Delhi Daredevils Virat Kohli Pradeep Sangwan The dynamics of team composition often lead to surprising decisions during player auctions.
New Delhi, April 16 (NationPress) Former Indian cricket star Virender Sehwag has disclosed why the Delhi Daredevils (now known as Delhi Capitals) opted against acquiring Virat Kohli ahead of the inaugural IPL season in 2008. He mentioned that the team had a plethora of top-order batsmen and was in need of additional bowlers.
As the captain during that first season, Sehwag had previously signed on as an 'icon player' before the first auction. He recounted, "Back in 2008, during the inaugural IPL season, our squad included Shikhar Dhawan and Tilakratne Dilshan, both of whom were openers. However, we often positioned them at the three and five spots since Gautam Gambhir and I opened the innings. Manoj Tiwary held down the number four position. Thus, we had numerous top-order batsmen, making it challenging to include everyone in the batting lineup," Sehwag shared with Star Sports.
He added, "At that time, Virat Kohli was also batting at either number three or four, which left us without the opportunity to bring him into the mix. Our squad lacked a bowler, leading us to choose Pradeep Sangwan over Kohli."
Following Delhi's decision, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) acquired Kohli for USD 50,000. Remarkably, he continues to represent the same team and is the only player in IPL history to have played for the same franchise throughout all 19 seasons of the league to date. Kohli stands as the highest run-scorer in IPL history, amassing over 8,840 runs in 272 matches.
On the other hand, Sangwan had a modest stint with the Delhi Daredevils, taking part in three seasons where he secured only 29 wickets in 28 matches. He later played for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Gujarat Lions.
Point of View
The dynamics of team composition during the auctions often lead to unexpected outcomes.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't Delhi Daredevils pick Virat Kohli in 2008?
Delhi Daredevils had a strong lineup of top-order batsmen and needed bowlers, which led them to choose Pradeep Sangwan over Virat Kohli.
What has been Virat Kohli's IPL journey?
Virat Kohli has played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru since the IPL's inception and is the highest run-scorer in the league's history.
How did Pradeep Sangwan perform for Delhi Daredevils?
Pradeep Sangwan played three seasons for Delhi Daredevils, taking 29 wickets in 28 matches, which was a modest performance.
