NEW DELHI , MAY 06,
Riyan Parag was the last player to be picked up during the IPL auctions before the ongoing edition and did not make his debut till the competition was halfway through. Since then, though, there has been no looking back for the youngster.
If there has been one bright spot for Rajasthan Royals, it has been the 17-year-old’s form. Having already earned high praise from the likes of Steve Smith, Parag showed maturity in the face of all-round collapse from the rest of his teammates against Delhi Capitals on Saturday.
“This is my first IPL and I didn’t think I would be playing so many matches. I just came here to learn as much as I can, have the experience and go home, but now I am really happy I could contribute to my team,” Parag said after the game, his contribution of 50 runs in a total of 115 standing out.
Bigger targets
He admits he has his sights on bigger targets, but is in no hurry to jump into the big league. A national cap is his dream and, given the way he has played with maturity far beyond his age, that may happen sooner than later.
“I think the Under-19 World Cup was a high point in my career and now, playing for Rajasthan Royals is a different experience altogether. “The main goal has always been to play with the Indian team and these are small steps that will lead me to my goal. As of now, I am only thinking of performing on the domestic circuit and coming back to the IPL next year,” he said.
Realistic
As part of the winning Under-19 World Cup last year and rated highly by coach Rahul Dravid, Parag is realistic enough to know he would have to continue being consistent before aiming high.
Coming from a state that doesn’t really boast of the kind of facilities or pedigree that some others do in India, the Assamese is nevertheless optimistic about both his own form and that of his team.
“Pressure is there only if you think about it. I just try to keep it simple. If you think about all the process and what all you have to do, only then you start overthinking and the pressure gets to you. Right now, I am just ready for any opportunity that comes my way,” he insisted.
“And Assam cricket is growing fast. We have been playing without professionals for the last three years and while the two we went without a win, last year we were fourth on the points table and beat Bengal and Haryana, so it’s getting better,” he said.
