Virender Sehwag, Diana Edulji, and Aravinda de Silva join ICC Hall of Fame

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday (November 13) welcomed three cricketing greats into its hallowed Hall of Fame. The latest inductees include the explosive India's Virender Sehwag and Diana Edulji, along with Sri Lankan batting great Aravinda de Silva.

Each of these legends left an indelible mark on the cricketing world, and their contributions have rightfully earned them a place among the sport's immortals.

Sehwag is hailed as one of the most destructive and entertaining batters of the modern era. His inclusion in the ICC Hall of Fame is a recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the game.

Across 104 Tests, Sehwag amassed 8,586 runs at an impressive average of 49.34, complemented by 40 wickets. In 251 ODIs, he showcased his versatility, accumulating 8,273 runs and claiming 96 wickets. Sehwag's explosive style of play and his remarkable record of 23 Test centuries solidify his legacy as one of India's cricketing greats.

In a statement, Sehwag expressed his gratitude, saying, "I feel extremely grateful for having spent a great part of my life doing what I loved most, 'hitting the cricket ball'... I would also like to thank my family, friends, people I played with, and countless people who prayed for me selflessly."

Former India woman cricketer Diana Edulji's induction into the ICC Hall of Fame recognises her impact both on and off the field. With 20 Tests and 34 ODIs for India, Edulji made a significant contribution as a slow left-arm orthodox spinner, securing 63 Test and 46 ODI wickets.

However, her influence extended beyond her playing days. As an administrator, Edulji played a pivotal role in championing opportunities for female cricketers in India, leaving an enduring legacy for the women's game.

Expressing her joy, Edulji stated, "At the outset, I would like to thank the ICC and the Jury for having selected me to be inducted in the ICC Hall Of Fame 2023... It indeed is a great honour to be the first Indian Women Cricketer to be inducted and join a galaxy of cricketers, male and female from across the world."

"I am delighted to be considered for this award. It's not only a proud moment for me, my family and friends but also for BCCI and Indian Women's Cricket," she added further.

Aravinda de Silva, a key figure in Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup triumph, enters the ICC Hall of Fame with an illustrious career spanning 93 Tests and 308 ODIs. Scoring 20 Test centuries and 11 ODI centuries, de Silva was known for his classy batting and ability to adapt to the demands of the game.

His unbeaten 107 in the 1996 World Cup final against Australia remains etched in cricketing history as one of the most memorable innings in a final.

Filled with gratitude, de Silva acknowledged the support of his family, saying, "My family, my parents, my sister, my wife, and children are my anchor, and deserve the deepest thanks for their unwavering support and sacrifice, which have propelled me towards success."

"To my coaches, teachers, fans and supporters, your relentless belief in me has fuelled my drive to succeed. My mentors and captains have guided and inspired me, and my teammates have been my extended family on this incredible journey. To the ones I have played against, thank you for enriching
my game.

"My sincere appreciation goes to the ICC, and the Hall of Fame voting committee for this extraordinary recognition. I share this honour with all who have stood by and shaped me... "Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey."

The inclusion of Virender Sehwag, Diana Edulji, and Aravinda de Silva into the ICC Hall of Fame is a celebration of their extraordinary contributions to the sport. These cricketing legends have not only showcased their skills on the field but have also played pivotal roles in shaping the future of cricket, leaving a lasting impact on the global cricketing community.