(Source X)
Assam’s promising young all-rounder Riyan Parag has been duly recognized for his outstanding performances in the domestic season and IPL 2024, earning his maiden call-up to the Indian squad. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) star’s selection comes as a well-deserved reward.
The BCCI’s Selection Committee has unveiled a 15-member squad for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, where India will engage in a five-match T20I series against the hosts. Scheduled to commence on July 6 at the Harare Sports Club, the series will continue with matches on July 7, 10, 13, and 14 at the same venue. Notably, the entire Indian squad currently participating in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 has been rested for this tour.
Riyan Parag’s long-awaited dream of donning the Indian jersey has finally materialized with his selection for the Zimbabwe tour. Notably, Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed, who serve as reserves for the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, have also found a place in the squad.
Shubman Gill will lead Team India for the first time during the Zimbabwe tour, where the national selection committee has introduced several new faces to the T20I squad. Among them, Abhishek Sharma, Nitish Rana, Tushar Deshpande, and Riyan Parag have earned their maiden call-ups. Parag, in particular, was visibly elated about fulfilling his dream of representing India.
Currently honing his skills at the Rajasthan Royals (RR) High-Performance Centre, Parag’s selection was warmly celebrated by his IPL franchise. Following the announcement, he took to social media with a heartfelt post captioned ‘Dare to Dream’.
Riyan Parag X post
The young batting prodigy also conveyed his thoughts on his first call-up in a video shared by RR on their social media platforms. Parag was featured holding an India jersey in the brief clip posted by the Royals on X.
In the video, Parag shared heartfelt sentiments, describing his journey and selection for India as “emotional, humbling, and overwhelming.” He expressed his lifelong aspiration to play cricket for the Indian team and conveyed gratitude for the chance to represent his country.
Riyan Parag said: “It’s emotional, it’s humbling, and it’s overwhelming. I think I started playing cricket having just one goal, which was to play for the Indian team. Thank you.”
