'Completely changed batsman' - MI star Suryakumar Yadav praises RR's Riyan Parag after electric start to IPL 2024

Mohit Khakhar

'Completely changed batsman' - MI star Suryakumar Yadav praises RR's Riyan Parag after electric start to IPL 2024 image

Riyan Parag has been a revelation in domestic cricket in the past year or so. Rajasthan Royals' youngster, who was prey to harsh criticism until IPL 2023, has now continued his impressive domestic form to IPL 2024.

On Thursday night, the Assam-born cricketer smashed his first half-century of IPL 2024, in a crunch match against Delhi Capitals. The hosts initially found themselves struggling, until Parag's monstrous innings of 84 off 45 deliveries. 

Parag has had an electrifying start to his IPL 2024 campaign. The young all-rounder scored a 29-ball 43 in RR's inaugural game of IPL 2024. Two matches into the IPL, Parag has gathered numerous admirers, including MI batter Suryakumar Yadav, and former India all-rounder, Irfan Pathan.

Suryakumar Yadav heaped praises on Riyan Parag. Yadav, who is currently on the sidelines serving his time out due to injury, recalled his time alongside Parag at the National Cricket Academy.

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What did Suryakumar Yadav say about Riyan Parag?

Surya recalled his time from the NCA about Riyan Parag. He posted on X, about how Parag was focused on his recovery, right ahead of IPL 2024. The MI batsman called Parag as a 'changed guy'.

(Parag was) Completely focused on his recovery and with great discipline working on his skills. And I was not wrong to tell that to one of the coaches there ‘He is a changed guy’, Surya tweeted.

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What did Irfan Pathan say about Riyan Parag?

Amidst Riyan Parag's heroics against Delhi Capitals, former India international, Irfan Pathan has made a bold claim about the 23-year-old. Pathan confessed about Parag's chances for the Indian National Team.

In the next two years Riyan Parag is playing for India…, Irfan Pathan tweeted.

 

Mohit Khakhar

Mohit Khakhar Photo

Mohit Khakhar is a content producer for The Sporting News India.