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Amidst the nationwide celebrations following India‘s triumphant win in the T20 World Cup 2024, a controversy has surfaced involving young cricketer Riyan Parag and former fast bowler S Sreesanth.
Controversy over Riyan Parag’s remarks
Parag’s remarks on T20 World Cup predictions have sparked a debate among fans and the cricketing community.
In a viral old social media video, Parag was asked to predict the semifinalists and eventual winner of the tournament. Parag responded frankly, expressing his lack of interest in closely following the World Cup and suggesting he would only focus on such matters when he participates in the tournament himself.
“This will be a biased answer (prediction on the top four teams), but to be very honest, I don’t even want to watch the World Cup. I’ll just see who wins it at the end, and I’ll be happy. When I play in the World Cup, I will think about the top four and all of that,” Parag said.
Also READ: BCCI make changes in India’s squad for 1st and 2nd T20I against Zimbabwe; Sai Sudharsan among the three fresh faces
S. Sreesanth’s critique
During the 2024 edition final broadcast, S Sreesanth, a two-time World Cup winner, without taking Parag’s name indirectly criticized the Guwahati-born cricketer’s comments, and also gave advice to young cricketers who showed disinterest due to non-selection. Sreesanth emphasized the importance of patriotism and wholehearted support for the team selected to represent India.
“Some youngsters have also said that they will not watch the World Cup because they have not been selected. I would say that first you should be patriotic, then yes, you should be a cricket lover. But those who have selected the team, they should be supported with all their heart, mind, and passion,” Sreesanth was quoted as saying by The Times of India.
S. Sreesanth Slams Riyan Parag For Not Supporting India In T20 WC 2024
" Some youngsters have also said that they will not watch the world cup because they have not been selected.I would say that first you should be patriotic then you should be a Cricket lover." pic.twitter.com/Xp7xuoj9rl
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) July 2, 2024
India’s T20 World Cup 2024 victory
India’s thrilling victory over South Africa in the final, securing their second T20 World Cup title after an 11-year wait for an ICC Trophy, has united the nation in celebration. Rohit Sharma‘s leadership and the team’s collective efforts were pivotal in this historic achievement.
Parag’s rise and call up to national side
Parag’s recent inclusion in the national squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe has been fueled by consistent performances in domestic cricket and a standout Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.
His impressive tally of 573 runs for Rajasthan Royals (RR) underscores his potential as a reliable performer. Additionally, Parag’s ability to contribute with off-spin bowling enhances his value as a versatile all-rounder for India’s future campaigns.
