The Indian selectors have reposed faith in young talent in the form of Riyan Parag and Harshit Rana by including them in the squad for the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka. Notwithstanding his inconsistent performance in the Zimbabwe series, the selectors believe in the potential of Parag and are keen to groom his all-round abilities.
An insider in the selection committee revealed that Parag’s improved attitude and commitment towards the game were instrumental in his selection. They have been impressed by his development as a batsman, his decent bowling, and superb fielding. He is looked upon by the selectors as an asset for the team in times to come and is ready to give him sufficient chances.
“Parag is highly talented and has improved his attitude towards the game by several notches,” the source told TOI. “He’s now looking to stay at the wicket. To add to his value, he can bowl decently and is a terrific fielder to boot. The selectors want to nurture him for the future,” the source added.
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In contrast, Harshit Rana has been included in the ODI squad for his overall performance in the IPL. With his variations of yorkers and slower balls, he has been tough on the opponents by being able to deliver at the death. And seeing the budding potential in him, it is said that the selectors are more interested in assessing him at the international level and inducting him into the squad for the forthcoming series against Sri Lanka.
BCCI believe Riyan Parag is highly talented and has improved his attitude towards the game by several notches.
He’s now looking to stay at the wicket.he can bowl decently and is a terrific fielder to boot.The selectors want to nurture him for future.pic.twitter.com/2pBBdGB9ic
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) July 25, 2024
“At the death, he can bowl yorkers, slower balls, and all other variations. That makes him a good option in white-ball cricket,” says a source.
Already, Parag and Rana have bright careers ahead of them in Indian cricket. Their selection into the team for the tour to Sri Lanka was a clear indication of the selection committee’s intention toward building a strong core for the next generation of white-ball cricketers.
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Immediate performance against Sri Lanka is the obvious goal, but long-term goals have always pertained to mentoring these young talents into match-winners for the Indian team. Now, the Sri Lanka series will turn out to be a challenge for both of them, Parag and Rana. If they are consistent in their performances, the place of both of them in the Indian team may get confirmed for many years.
