[Watch] "You have the ability to be a match-winner for India"-Virat Kohli says as he hands Riyan Parag his cap before IND vs SL 3rd ODI
Team India star batter Virat Kohli handed Riyan Parag his debut cap ahead of the third ODI against Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The Assam-born cricketer becomes the 256th player to represent India in One Day Internationals.
Parag showcased his all-round abilities in the T20Is that were played against Sri Lanka, preceding the ODIs, making his presence felt with bat and ball. He was expected to make his bow in the ODIs too although he wasn't picked in the XI for the first two matches of the series.
Ahead of the third ODI against Sri Lanka, Riyan Parag was handed a debut, with Virat Kohli handing him the cap. In the past, Parag has been very vocal about his support and adulation for the former Indian captain.
Here is what Virat Kohli had to say when handing the cap to Riyan Parag (via BCCI on X):
"Riyan, firstly congratulations for getting to play your first game for India. In today's cricket, we all know apart from performances people who are responsible for selecting you are watching you and they see something special in you. And having spoken to GG bhai, Rohit, selectors everyone, they see something special in you. You have the ability to become a match-winner for India.
"I know you have that belief, I have known you for a while now. And no better time than to step in time, 1-0 down, to start off your international career with an impactful performance with bat, ball and in the field as well. I wish you all the best, cap 256, Riyan Parag."
You can watch the video below:
Riyan Parag is one of the two changes for India in the 3rd ODI against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first in the third ODI against Team India at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Team India made two changes, with KL Rahul and Arshdeep Singh making way for Riyan Parag and Rishabh Pant. This will be Pant's first appearance for India in ODIs since his horrific car accident.
At the time of writing this article, Sri Lanka are 89/1 after 20 overs, with Axar Patel picking up the wicket of Pathum Nissanka (45) on the fifth ball of the 20th over. Currently, Avishka Fernando (43) and Kusal Mendis are batting in the middle for the hosts.