Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag disclosed the reason why Delhi Daredevils, now Delhi Capitals, opted not to sign Virat Kohli before the inaugural IPL season in 2008. Sehwag, the team’s captain in the first season, explained that they had a surplus of top-order batsmen and lacked bowlers. This led them to choose Pradeep Sangwan over Kohli due to the team’s batting lineup constraints.
Sehwag reminisced about the 2008 season, highlighting that Shikhar Dhawan and Tilakratne Dilshan were also part of the team, occupying positions in the top order. With Gautam Gambhir and Sehwag opening the innings and Manoj Tiwary at number four, fitting Kohli into the lineup became a challenge. Consequently, the team prioritized bolstering their bowling attack, resulting in Sangwan’s selection over Kohli.
Following Delhi’s decision, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured Kohli for USD 50,000. Kohli has since remained with RCB, establishing a unique record of playing for the same team throughout all 19 IPL seasons. With over 8,840 runs in 272 matches, Kohli holds the record for the highest run-scorer in IPL history.
Sangwan, the bowler chosen over Kohli, had a modest stint with Delhi Daredevils, claiming 29 wickets in 28 matches across three seasons. Subsequently, he went on to represent Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Gujarat Lions (GL) in the IPL circuit.
