When Riyan Parag first came on the scene, he was known more for his unapologetic expression on social media than his batting. But then came a “good 10-15 minutes” advice from the great Virat Kohli, and things changed for the better. After being criticized for speaking his mind instead of uttering boring clichés in media interactions or on social media, the 22-year-old player from Assam is now staking a claim for the India squad with stellar performances this IPL season.
Asking Kohli for advice, Parag told JioCinema, “In my second year, I had a bad phase in the IPL. I discussed with him how to get out of that phase and how he handled similar situations, so I can also say learn from his experiences.
“He gave me a good ten to fifteen minutes of his time and shared a few things with me. I think that really helped me.” Parag of Rajasthan Royals has been in top form this season and is currently third in the list of highest run-scorers with 318 runs in seven matches.
Besides Kohli, Parag has also learned a lot from another cricket legend Rahul Dravid, who was previously associated with the RR franchise.
“I have learned a lot. In cricket we know he is one of the best in the business, one of the greatest cricketers of our time.
“Outside of cricket, I learned a lot about him, how to behave, engage with the public, on social media and how to present ourselves outside of cricket in general.” Speaking about his first season in the IPL in 2019, Parag said the feeling was surreal when he came into bat for the first time, in a match against Chennai Super Kings with the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni just feet away from the newcomer.
“It was a surreal feeling. I don't remember exactly how I felt, but I was definitely nervous. Playing against CSK, getting to bat, with Dhoni behind the wicket, was definitely a surreal moment. Never forget that, I was excited rather than nervous and enjoying every moment.'' On his role in the team, Parag added: “I think my role in the first year is one of my favorite roles to play in T20 cricket. Batting in the middle order, scoring a few overs and being exceptional in the field.
“I have always considered myself an all-rounder. What matters is that I do the IPL and execute all that, which I did in the domestic season as well.” Parag feels fortunate to currently be training under RR's cricket director Kumar Sangakkara.
“He's a great coach. He lets players do everything. I know behind all the noise he has his tactics behind him, but he lets his players express themselves.” When the discussion finally turned to dealing with criticism on social media, he said this: “I keep it very simple. If I have an opinion about something, I share it on social media. But I don't wait for people in my social media.” media to give their opinion, and then go through their opinion, I share my opinion and say what I want to say, but that's it.
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