Riyan Parag, the young Assam-born cricketer who has often been on the receiving end of social media trolls, has finally silenced his critics with an India debut. The 22-year-old all-rounder made his One Day International (ODI) bow for India against Sri Lanka in a series-deciding encounter at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Riyan Parag: From a trolling target to a national player
Parag’s journey to the national team has been marked by perseverance and resilience. Despite facing criticism for his inconsistent performances in Indian Premiere League (IPL), he has consistently shown glimpses of his talent. His selection for the ODI squad came as a surprise to many, but it was a testament to his unwavering belief in his abilities.
Dream come true for the youngster
The excitement surrounding Parag’s debut was palpable. The young cricketer received a rousing welcome from his teammates, and the moment was made even more special by his idol, Virat Kohli, presenting him with the coveted ODI debut cap. The gesture was a heartwarming one and symbolized the changing of the guard in Indian cricket.
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High-stakes encounter
The match against Sri Lanka is a high-stakes affair, with the series on the line. The hosts had taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the first game ending in a thrilling tie and a dominating win in the second. India would be looking to level the series in the final match. The inclusion of Parag added a new dimension to the Indian batting lineup, and fans were eager to see what he could bring to the table.
Parag’s inclusion in the team not only injected fresh energy but also brought a sense of unpredictability to India’s batting order. Known for his aggressive stroke play and ability to clear the boundaries with ease, Parag is expected to play a crucial role in the Indian innings.
Social media erupts with elation
As soon as the news of Parag’s debut broke, social media was flooded with congratulatory messages and tweets. Fans, who have been eagerly waiting for the youngster to get an opportunity at the highest level, were ecstatic.
Here’s how fans reacted:
Welcome to ODI cricket, Riyan Parag 👏👏
He receives his 🧢 from Virat Kohli 👌👌
Follow the Match ▶️ https://t.co/Lu9YkAmnek#TeamIndia | #SLvIND | @ParagRiyan | @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/TdsQYGkCbw
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 7, 2024
Riyan Parag has always looked up to Virat Kohli and how cool is it to get his cap from the ODI GOAT! 🐐
We can’t wait for them to do the Bihu Celebrations together 🥹#PlayBold #SLvIND
pic.twitter.com/HJL8JpjsGt
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) August 7, 2024
“A moment to treasure forever”
Riyan Parag’s ODI debut 🏏is a remarkable milestone, made even more unforgettable by receiving his debut 🧢 cap from the one and only Virat Kohli – his idol and inspiration.
1/2 pic.twitter.com/M7Fsota8v4
— Assam Cricket Association (@assamcric) August 7, 2024
From tweeting praises for Virat Kohli to receiving his ODI cap from him, Riyan Parag has made it large in life. 👏🏼 pic.twitter.com/JMIVojLPxH
— Prathamesh Avachare (@onlyprathamesh) August 7, 2024
Riyan Parag receives his ODI cap from his idol and hero, Virat Kohli 🤴
What a moment for him..!!
He must have dreamt of this moment for a long time.. and finally achieves it.. #RiyanParag#Parag#IndvSL pic.twitter.com/nWggNmwVAC
— TheCricketRant (@TheCricketRant) August 7, 2024
No better feeling than being brought onto the big stage by your idol. 🇮🇳
Childhood dream: Complete! 🐐💗 pic.twitter.com/QxUTVNO0VI
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) August 7, 2024
The way Virat Kohli made Riyan Parag wear the ODI debut Cap was beautiful. Moment for Riyan, he received his Cap from his Idol.
– CUTEST MOMENT OF THE DAY. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/LuaEUyAVQ6
— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) August 7, 2024
Receiving the ODI cap from the greatest batsman in the world and more importantly from your idol “Virat Kohli” is such a stuff of dreams. 🌟
Go well, Riyan Parag! ❤🧿 pic.twitter.com/cgwCjcJkwh
— Yash. (@YashMall08) August 7, 2024
Riyan Parag would have dreamt for this moment (Getting cap from his 🐐) & he got exactly for his hardwork.
– Cutest moment from Colombo 👌 pic.twitter.com/HZPh4gSCRN
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 7, 2024
This one is special for “Riyan Parag” 👏👏 pic.twitter.com/LhVug438Ow
— Arpit Verma (@Aarycrky) August 7, 2024
Many took to Twitter to express their joy and support, hailing Parag as the future of Indian cricket. The trending of his name on the platform was a clear indication of the massive following he enjoys.
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