Mumbai: Former Indian opening batter Virender Sehwag, who hosts the streaming reality show ‘Rise & Fall’, has credited former skipper Sourav Ganguly with instilling fearlessness in the national cricket team.

Speaking during the show's promotions at a city venue, Sehwag shared that Ganguly’s approach was simple: match the opponent's intensity on the field, gesture for gesture.

“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 noted that under Ganguly's leadership, the team's primary philosophy shifted toward securing international victories away from home.

On the broadcasting front, Sehwag has taken over hosting duties from Ashneer Grover for the second season of ‘Rise & Fall’. The reality series features 15 contestants competing over 42 days in a strategic game divided between 'Rulers' in the Tower and 'Workers' in the Basement. Season 2 introduces viewer voting, allowing audiences to influence contestant roles.

Produced by Banijay Asia, the show streams on Amazon MX Player. (IANS)