Riyan Parag Calls for Respect in Cricket Amid IPL Controversies
Riyan Parag's Plea for Respect in Cricket
A file image of Riyan Parag in Rajasthan Royals' colours.
Jaipur, May 21: Riyan Parag, the captain of Rajasthan Royals, has criticized television commentators and analysts for their personal remarks directed at him during the current IPL season. He emphasized the need for commentators to focus on the game rather than engage in personal attacks.
After Rajasthan Royals secured a win against Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, Parag, who was sidelined due to a hamstring injury, voiced his discontent regarding the intense scrutiny surrounding his off-field behavior, particularly an incident involving vaping in the dressing room earlier this season.
“This IPL season has seen a lot of external distractions. Cricket is beloved across the nation, and we, as players, strive to perform our best,” Parag stated to the media following the seven-wicket victory over LSG.
“We aim to meet the expectations of our fans. It’s crucial that we all appreciate cricket and view it positively. Players put in significant effort, and it’s easy to criticize when a team is bowled out for low scores, but there’s a preparation phase of 3-4 days aimed at achieving high scores. Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. We are human and prone to errors. I urge commentators, whose words reach many, to promote love for cricket and focus on the sport itself,” he added.
Parag, recently appointed as the vice-captain for India A in a triangular series in Sri Lanka, was an impact substitute for the match but did not participate on the field.
The 24-year-old expressed that cricket deserves respect as it is the most significant sport in the country. “This sport, which holds immense importance in our nation, should be treated with due respect. Discussions should revolve solely around cricket,” he remarked.
He also mentioned his efforts to remain unaffected by external opinions. “I’ve realized that regardless of what I do, there will always be discussions,” he noted.
“I understand that these discussions should not influence my performance, form, or mindset because those who criticize from behind a keyboard are outsiders,” he added.
Parag praised the remarkable performance of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored an impressive 93 runs off just 38 balls against LSG, describing it as his “best innings.”
“This was undoubtedly his best innings. When he was at 5 runs off 10 or 11 balls, he had two choices: succumb to frustration or rise to the challenge. He chose to take his time and played a brilliant shot off Mayank (Yadav), showcasing his understanding of the game despite his age,” Parag explained.
LSG's head coach, Justin Langer, also praised Sooryavanshi, calling his batting style “breathtaking.”