Riyan Parag, the young and promising batting all-rounder, has set his sights on an India debut following a standout performance in the recent IPL 2024. Despite his impressive display for the Rajasthan Royals, he was not included in India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. However, Parag remains confident that his international debut is just around the corner.
At 22, Parag has already made significant contributions to Indian cricket, not only through his performances in the IPL but also by making a name for himself in the U19 World Cup 2018 and various domestic tournaments for Assam. His recent IPL season saw him reach new heights, scoring 573 runs at a striking rate of nearly 150. This remarkable run bolstered the Rajasthan Royals’ campaign, helping them reach Qualifier 2 in the 17th edition of the tournament.
Parag’s name was frequently mentioned in discussions ahead of the T20 World Cup squad selection, but the Guwahati-born cricketer will have to bide his time. Speaking at a sporting event in Mumbai, Parag expressed his unwavering belief that he will don the Indian jersey in the near future.
“At some point, you’ll have to take me, right? So that is my belief, I’m going to play for India,” Riyan Parag told PTI with confident optimism. “I don’t really care when. That is me believing in myself. That is not me being arrogant. This vision has been a part of my plan since I started playing cricket with my dad (former Railways and Assam player Parag Das) when I was 10. We were determined to make it to the Indian team regardless of any challenges.”
Parag’s confidence in his abilities is rooted in his long-term plan and dedication, building on years of disciplined training and consistent performance. “Whether it’s the next tour, whether it’s a tour in six months, whether it’s a tour in one year. I don’t really put my thought behind when I should play.
. That is the selector’s job, that is other people’s job,” he added, showcasing his maturity and patience.
Parag’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with cricketing pundits and analysts lauding his skill set and temperament. His explosive batting style, coupled with his effective leg-spin bowling, makes him a versatile player and a valuable asset for any team. The young cricketer’s career trajectory has been marked by a steady climb, reflecting his hard work and perseverance.
Though the IPL spotlight has been on Parag, his contributions to domestic cricket for Assam have also been noteworthy. His journey from making headlines in the U19 World Cup 2018 to becoming a linchpin for his IPL team underscores his growth as a cricketer. Parag’s stellar performance in the IPL has arguably placed him on the radar of national selectors, making an India cap appear to be a question of ‘when’ rather than ‘if.’
The buzz surrounding Parag’s potential India debut has intensified following his stellar IPL season. Cricket enthusiasts have been keenly observing his journey, with many expecting his inclusion in the national team sooner rather than later. The 22-year-old’s calm demeanor and focused approach continue to win him admirers, and the cricketing fraternity is abuzz with speculation about his future.
Parag is expected to be in strong contention for India’s next bilateral T20I series against Zimbabwe after the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. He is likely to make his debut alongside fellow emerging talent Abhishek Sharma, another promising player whose inclusion is eagerly anticipated by Indian cricket fans.
The road to international cricket is arduous and often filled with unforeseen challenges, but Riyan Parag’s journey exemplifies the virtues of hard work, patience, and belief in one’s abilities. While the immediate goal of making it to the T20 World Cup squad remains unfulfilled, Parag’s unwavering belief and remarkable performances suggest that his opportunity to represent India is not far away.
In summary, Riyan Parag’s career continues to be on an upward trajectory. His impressive performances in the IPL 2024 have solidified his place as one to watch in Indian cricket. As he waits for his maiden international call-up, Parag’s determination and confidence remain strong, reassuring fans and selectors alike that he is a future star in the making.
