Riyan Parag Confident Of India Call-Up Following IPL 2024 Performance

Riyan Parag has emerged as a standout performer in the IPL 2024, demonstrating his exceptional batting skills for Rajasthan Royals. The player is confident that an India call-up is imminent.

Riyan Parag's batting prowess was evident this season. After a few lacklustre years, the Assam-born cricketer showcased his hitting ability. In IPL 2024, Parag scored 573 runs in 16 matches, including four fifties. His performance caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

Despite past criticisms for not fully utilizing his talent, Parag remains confident. He believes that an India cap is within reach. Although he was not selected for the T20 World Cup, Parag is determined to stick to his process and let the results speak for themselves.

"At some point, you'll have to take me, right? So that is my belief, I'm going to play for India. I don't really care when. When I was not scoring runs - I said this in an interview as well that I am going to play for India," Parag told PTI recently.

"That is me believing in myself. That is not me being arrogant. That is what my plan was with my dad when I started playing cricket at around 10 years old. We were going to play for India regardless of anything," he added.

Future Prospects

India will participate in a series against Zimbabwe after the T20 World Cup. Whether this will mark the beginning of Parag's journey as an Indian player remains uncertain. The player has not set a timeline and stated that selection is not his concern.

"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," the Assam player added.

Handling Criticism

Parag has faced significant criticism but has learned to distance himself from both positive and negative feedback. He remains focused on his beliefs and plans.

"The biggest thing that I've taken away from the last season is that believing in yourself actually works out because a lot of people say a lot of different things, whether it's negative or positive. But at the end of the day, what matters is what you think about yourself and that is what I've been for," he concluded.

Praise from Peers

Parag's rise has been noted by many, including India batter Suryakumar Yadav. Yadav praised Parag, stating that he seemed like a completely different player when they met at the NCA before the IPL. The 22-year-old has also been impressive for Assam, continuing his form for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024.