In the thrilling match number 9 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Rajasthan Royals clinched a victory over Delhi Capitals by 12 runs. The Royals set a formidable target of 185 for 5 at the iconic Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, while the Capitals fell short with 173 for 5.
Riyan Parag Ignites IPL with His Stellar Performance
The star of Rajasthan's victory was Assam's young batsman, Riyan Parag, who remained unbeaten with a sensational 84 off 45 balls. With 7 boundaries and 6 sixes, the 22-year-old earned 'Player of the Match' honor. Despite losing three wickets for just 36 runs, Parag's dynamic innings propelled his team to a significant score.
Parag, previously unremarkable in IPL, has accumulated 600 runs at an average of 16.22 across 54 matches. With his recent performances, including hitting two fifties, Parag's dedication has repaid the trust placed in him by the Rajasthan Royals.
Rajasthan Royals have assigned Parag a new role, promoting him to bat at the crucial fourth position. The decision, which included trading Devdutt Padikkal prior to the IPL 2024, provided Parag the opportunity to fulfill the expectations of the team management. His recent 43 against Lucknow Super Giants has taken his tally to 127 runs in just two matches.
'My Mother Saw My Struggle': Riyan After Match-winning Innings
Post-victory, an emotional Riyan mentioned, 'I had to control my emotions. My mother, who witnessed my struggle, is also here. It feels extraordinary. I know my capabilities, and irrespective of my performance, I never doubted my talent. I scored heavily in the domestic season, and hard work paid off. I've been bedridden and on painkillers for three days but woke up today and am delighted.'
Riyan Parag debuting in 2019, his sixth IPL season reflects his complete maturity in demeanor and game. His celebration, or lack thereof, upon reaching a half-century against the Delhi Capitals, showcases his focus on the game rather than exuberant celebrations as seen previously.
Suryakumar Yadav, a star in Team India, praised Riyan: 'Met a boy a few weeks ago at NCA, nursing a light injury. He prioritized recovery and skill with great discipline. I wasn't wrong when I said he's a changed man. Riyan Parag 2.0.'
Domestic Cricket: A Deluge of Runs from Riyan
Riyan’s confidence received a boost from domestic cricket. With impressive batting, he scored 378 runs in 4 matches at an average of 75.6 and a strike rate of 113.85 in the Ranji Trophy for Assam. He recorded two centuries and one fifty, including a record-breaking century off 56 balls against Chhattisgarh. He led the run-scoring charts in the Deodhar Trophy, where he was also among the highest wicket-takers.
Riyan’s most notable performance was in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023, where he scored 510 runs at an average of 85 and a strike rate of 182.79 in 10 matches. He became the first batsman to hit seven consecutive fifties in T20 cricket, also taking 11 wickets at an economy of 7.29.
With his consistent performances and leadership, Riyan guided Assam to the knockout stages, marking a significant feat for this northeastern state.
Source: aajtak
Riyan Parag, by consistently silencing critics with exquisite performances, has also staked his claim for a spot in the Indian cricket team. He strongly believes that he will play for the country one day, as he mentioned in an interview, 'I will play for my nation someday; that belief has always been within me.'
Riyan's father, Parag Das, an established cricketer who played alongside MS Dhoni in Railway tournaments, must be proud to see his son follow in his steps. Riyan's dream came true when he debuted against Chennai in the IPL with Dhoni standing as the wicket-keeper.
Riyan Parag's cricketing journey has been commendable
First-Class: 29 matches, 1798 runs, 50 wicketsList A: 49 matches, 1720 runs, 50 wicketsT20: 100 matches, 2170 runs, 41 wicketsIPL: 56 matches, 727 runs, 4 wickets
