The 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) witnessed the remarkable rise of Riyan Parag. The young Assamese cricketer, who had endured criticism in previous seasons, silenced his doubters with a stellar batting performance. His consistent run with the bat proved to be a cornerstone for the Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) success.
Riyan Parag, who had struggled in the past three seasons, turned things around in spectacular fashion. His 573 runs in 16 matches placed him third in the IPL 2024 orange cap race. This feat is even more impressive considering it’s the highest tally ever recorded by a batsman playing at number four in a single IPL edition.
Previously, Parag had been a target of social media trolls due to his inconsistent performances. However, his dominant batting in 2024 has not only silenced his critics but also propelled him into contention for a potential India debut after the upcoming T20 World Cup.
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Known for his passionate nature and outspoken personality, Riyan Parag recently revealed a bold visualization exercise. He admitted to imagining himself smashing six sixes in a row off Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star fast bowler Mitchell Starc in the IPL final, leading RR to victory.
“I have visualized the craziest of things,” Riyan Parag said on The Ranveer Show on the Beer Biceps Youtube channel. “We were two games away from the playoffs, and I had already imagined hitting Starc for six sixes in the final of the IPL. We need 36 runs, and I am hitting Starc for six sixes. In my room, I padded up, hitting those shots. So when I am there, it’s nothing new for me. So that gives me a lot of satisfaction and clarity because you are winning those games back in the room.”
Riyan Parag ” I have visualized hitting Mitchell Starc for hitting 6 sixes in last over when 36 runs needed on last over in the IPL final.”pic.twitter.com/2pBBdGB9ic
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) June 3, 2024
Unfortunately, RR’s dream run came to an end in the second qualifier against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, dashing their hopes of reaching the final. The Royals’ season mirrored a rollercoaster ride. They started strong, winning eight out of their first nine matches. However, four consecutive defeats towards the end of the league stage left them finishing third on the points table.
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Despite defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the eliminator, their quest for a second IPL title fell short. Ultimately, Mitchell Starc, the player Parag envisioned himself dominating, ended up on the winning side. Starc’s exceptional bowling performance earned him the Player of the Match award as KKR clinched their third IPL title with a resounding eight-wicket victory over SRH.
Riyan Parag’s story in the 2024 IPL is a testament to perseverance and the power of visualizing success. While his dream of an IPL title remains unfulfilled, his breakout season has undoubtedly cemented his position as a future star for India.
