Riyan Parag, the 22-year-old batsman from Assam, has emerged as one of the breakout stars of IPL 2024. Following a string of underwhelming seasons, Parag exploded with a remarkable display of batting prowess, amassing a staggering 573 runs at an impressive average of 52.09 and a strike rate of nearly 150. This newfound confidence and a crucial change in batting position have not only propelled him to new heights but have also ignited his aspirations for an India call-up.
Self-Belief: The Bedrock of Parag’s Success
Parag’s unwavering belief in his abilities shines through in his recent statements. “At some point, you’ll have to take me, right? So that is my belief, I’m going to play for India,” he declared in a PTI interview.
This unwavering self-assurance, separate from arrogance, has been his guiding principle since his early cricketing days with his father, Parag Das, a former cricketer himself. “That is what my plan was with my dad…when I started playing cricket when I was like 10-years old. We were going to play for India regardless of anything,” Parag elaborated.
Finding His Groove at Number 4
Prior to his exceptional 2024 season, Parag had never crossed the 200-run mark in any of his previous five IPL outings. A crucial shift in his batting position, however, proved to be the turning point.
Promoted to his preferred number 4 spot, a position he occupies for his home state Assam, Parag found the familiarity and confidence he craved. “What you saw this year in the IPL is how I play domestic cricket,” he explained. “I take the onus up to myself… I take the expectations, I take the burden upon myself to deliver and that is why I play the best.”
Lessons Learned from Past Seasons
Parag readily acknowledges the challenges of previous IPL seasons where pressure and unrealistic expectations hindered his performance. “I was not doing that in the IPL,” he admitted.
“I was taking way too much pressure, keeping my expectations way too high and not doing the basic things right.” This introspection, coupled with the comfort of his preferred batting position, allowed him to flourish in IPL 2024.
Moving Forward: Chasing the Dream
Despite a disappointing loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator, which Parag openly acknowledges, his overall performance this season has been a resounding success. He emphasises the importance of self-belief, stating, “Having that constant belief in yourself, that you actually belong in this level, that you can actually do things that you [had] dreamt of, has been a constant and that will stay throughout.”
Parag’s sights are now firmly set on representing India. While an exact timeline for his debut remains uncertain, his unwavering belief and impressive IPL performance have undoubtedly strengthened his case for selection. With the upcoming tour of Zimbabwe on the horizon, Parag might just find himself realising his dream of playing in the coveted blue jersey.
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