Riyan Parag, a star player for the Rajasthan Royals, came under fire for remarks he made before the 2024 T20 World Cup. Former fast bowler and commentator S Sreesanth called Parag’s comments “unpatriotic.” Despite having a strong IPL 2024 season with RR—he finished as the team’s third-highest run-scorer. Riyan Parag openly expressed his lack of interest in watching the T20 World Cup 2024 matches.
Despite his strong performance in the IPL, Parag was passed over by selectors for the T20 World Cup. With 573 runs to his name in 16 matches, Rajasthan Royals star Riyan Parag finished as the third leading run scorer in IPL 2024. The former U-19 World Cup winner batted with maturity in the middle overs for the Royals this year and helped them win many matches as well.
Which is why he was picked in the Indian team for Zimbabwe T20Is. Due to his ability to contribute with the ball and bat in the middle order, there is a high chance that Parag will make his debut for India in the series opener itself, which will be played on Saturday (July 6) in Harare.
Riyan Parag Stirred Controversy
Prior to the T20 World Cup, Riyan Parag made several remarks that caused controversy. Supporters criticized the player, claiming that he had a “attitude issue.” Amidst the criticism, Riyan Parag’s’reckless’ and ‘unprofessional’ statement was denounced by two-time World Cup champion Sreesanth, especially considering India’s historic victory. Sreesanth also talked on the bigger problem of young athletes suffering from selection disappointments, highlighting the value of patriotism and supporting the team in the face of personal failures.
“It will be a biased answer (prediction on the top four teams), but to be very honest, I don’t even want to watch the World Cup. I’ll just see who wins it at the end, and I’ll be happy. When I play in the World Cup, I will think about the top four and all of that”, he told Bharat Army ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024
Sreesanth chastised Parag for prioritising his feelings over his commitment to the country, without holding back. He emphasized that young athletes should put their love for their nation and the game ahead of any disappointment they may have over their team’s selection. Sreesanth pleaded with them to support the selected squad wholeheartedly in every event and to respect the selectors’ judgments.
He emphasized the need for cooperation and backing the BCCI’s decisions. He feels that enthusiasm for the game and patriotism are necessary qualities for any prospective Indian cricket player.
“Some youngsters have also said that they will not watch the World Cup because they have not been selected. I would say that first you should be patriotic, then yes, you should be a cricket lover. But those who have selected the team, they should be supported with all their heart, mind and passion,” Sreesanth said on air during the T20 World Cup 2024 final between India and South Africa
Parag has been chosen for the forthcoming Zimbabwean trip. Later on in the competition, Shubman Gill—who had been a member of India’s traveling reserves for the T20 World Cup 2024—was taken from the list. The captain of the Gujarat Titans will now lead the Men in Blue in their matchup with the Sikander Raza-led team.
Also Read : https://goworldwide.co.in/icc-t20-world-cup-2024-virat-kohli-is-a-legend/