The Redemption of Riyan Parag - Cricket Winner

Riyan Parag’s backing from the Rajasthan Royals has always been a question. His skill set as a batter and a player who could bowl a few leggies brought a lot of promise, which often went undelivered. Often used as a finisher, Riyan Parag struggled to accept his role. He was a part of the 2018 Under 19 World Cup winning side but could not step forward beyond glimpses of his true talent.

Often coming in the last few overs, Riyan Parag had the tough job of going big or out. The finisher’s job is for a particular hit or miss. Such a task can be a massive challenge for a youngster, and it could dent confidence unless one is absolutely sure of his ability to have a good day.

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In Parag’s case, pressure and strike-rate got to him early on as he struggled to deliver for the Royals consistently. Rajasthan, though, stuck with him and continued to back him. After three underwhelming seasons, the Royals decided to stick with him. In the interim, Riyan Parag continued to perform in domestic cricket.

This year, though, turned out to be a breakthrough year for him. Starting with the Emerging Stars Asia Cup, Riyan Parag consistently churned out the scores for Assam. Scoring 350+ with an average of 75, Riyan Parag finally broke through with the bat.

His impressive domestic form did not go unnoticed, and Riyan Parag finally got to come up with the order. In both games so far, Riyan Parag came in at number four and he is yet to disappoint. Starting with a solid 43, Riyan Parag dragged Rajasthan out of trouble against the Capitals to get them to a match-winning position. His 84 was full of maturity, with Riyan Parag holding his end and launching at the right moment, taking on the short ball and the yorker well.

With more time to settle in, Riyan Parag is proving to be a skillful performer against both spin and pace. Playing himself and attacking has worked well in domestic cricket, with Riyan Parag going at an excellent strike rate after he was set.

He was the man of the tournament in the Deodhar Trophy, playing with the same method. By the end of the tournament, he was the leading run-scorer and third-highest wicket-taker, indicating his ability to come out as an all-rounder when the time is right.

His form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy was just as good, and a few months later, we are seeing a confident Riyan Parag in the IPL. He has had his fair share of chances since 2019 and has also had a reasonably high price tag in the period as well. Performances-wise, Riyan Parag failed to deliver but seems to be getting it right after some confident performances. It has been an up-and-down start to his career, but Riyan Parag is finally finding his way forward after years of speculation over his talent and ability.