• Riyan Parag made his ODI debut in a crucial series decider against Sri Lanka.

  • Parag received the ODI debut cap from his cricketing idol Virat Kohli at Colombo.

Fans go wild as Riyan Parag makes his ODI debut in SL vs IND series decider
Riyan Parag makes it into his dream day for an India debut in a series decider (Image source: X)

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:

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.

Also READ: SL vs IND: Rohit Sharma expresses disappointment after a shocking loss to Sri Lanka in the second ODI

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About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.