3 reasons why Riyan Parag is the future of India's ODI side
Riyan Parag made his debut in the final ODI of the three-match series against Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday, August 7. Although the Men in Blue lost the game and the series, he starred with the ball and also showed glimpses of his batting ability.
Parag scored 15 runs and picked up three crucial wickets in the game where the spinners dominated the proceedings. He also made an impact in the three T20Is preceding the ODI series, scoring 33 runs and picking up three wickets.
He has only featured in six T20Is and a solitary 50-over game. Despite that, the Assam-born cricketer has been a household name in the domestic circuit and the IPL for the Rajasthan Royals.
While it is still early days, Riyan Parag has shown glimpses that he is the future star of the Indian 50-over side. On that note, let's take a look at three reasons why Parag is the future star of India's ODI side.
#1 He can bat anywhere in the middle order
Riyan Parag is a generational talent and is known to pull out teams single-handedly from dire straits. He can bat anywhere in the order, which makes him a handy option for any captain.
The right-handed batter can play in any position from No. 4 to 8, evidenced by his performances for the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. He scored 595 in 16 innings at an average close to 50 batting at No. 4, while at No. 5 and 6, Parag has amassed 146 and 346 runs, respectively.
The Men in Blue have lacked batters who bat anywhere in the order and have shown adaptability. Thus, Parag can solve the long-term issue, which can earn him the future star tag.
#2 Riyan Parag is a batter who can also bowl
Ever since the retirement of Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh, India have lacked batters who can bowl. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer have all bowled occasionally but are not regular. It has hurt the Men in Blue for several years now, including ICC events.
Parag, meanwhile, is someone who can bowl regularly and has shown his abilities on the international stage. Early in his international career, he has six wickets from seven games - three in T20Is and as many in ODIs.
Thus, as a batter who can chip in with wickets regularly, Riyan Parag will serve the Indian team for a long time. And if his first month or two are taken into consideration, Parag can be the future of the Indian team.
#3 Ability to deliver under pressure
Only 22 years of age, Riyan Parag has already shown great maturity. He has delivered several knocks in clutch situations, leading the team's mantle single-handedly.
His ability to withstand and deliver under pressure stands out. Be it 10/2 or 100/5, Parag looks unfazed by situations and has the potential to play impactful knocks. Similarly, with the ball, the youngster can come in and provide breakthroughs against the run of play.
Only a few players boast this ability, which is why he can be the future of Indian cricket in ODIs.