Is Riyan Parag in Gautam Gambhir’s long-term plans? Irfan Pathan analyses ‘extra advantage’ for youngster

Indian cricket fans were surprised to see Riyan Parag’s inclusion in the Playing XI for the first T20I against Sri Lanka. Parag’s brilliant outing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season was the driving force behind his selection to the national team. However, the 22-year-old getting picked ahead of his skipper Sanju Samson at Rajasthan Royals was not accepted by many.

Captain Suryakumar Yadav and especially head coach Gautam Gambhir were slammed on social media for their decision to drop Samson despite the keeper-batter scoring a half-century in his last T20I match. Fans also pointed out Gambhir being hypocritical as he previously praised the Kerala cricketer for his exceptional talent.

Also Check: WATCH: Gautam Gambhir seen having serious chat with Suryakumar Yadav after T20 series win versus Sri Lanka

Riyan Parag shuts down critics with three-fer  

However, Parag himself managed to answer the questions in the series opener, which India won by 43 runs. He was dismissed for just 7 runs but made a huge impact in the bowling department. The right-arm spinner grabbed three wickets in 1.2 overs and helped India quickly wrap up the Lankan innings.  

Gambhir was seen pumped up in the dugout when Parag was showing off his all-round prowess. The Assam-born cricketer was picked for the second T20I as well. This clearly shows that the management is inclined towards players who can contribute in both departments. 

It's something that India has been lacking for a few years now, and it's an indication that Parag has been able to tap into Gambhir's long-term plans. If we look at the past, players like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag also served as part-time bowlers. This allows the team to have adequate bowling options without relying solely on designated bowlers or all-rounders.

Also Check: WATCH: Gautam Gambhir gives stone faced reaction after India wastes its review

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also shared similar views on his social media handle. Pathan noted that Parag's ability to chip in with a few overs is an “extra advantage” for him.

"You will see Riyan Parag getting many chances due to his bowling ability. As a top-order batsman, not many in the country have the ability to roll their arm over. This is where Riyan Parag will get an extra advantage, and rightly so," Pathan posted on X.

In the second match, Parag bowled all four overs but failed to pick up any wickets conceding 30 runs. Meanwhile, Sanju Samson made the XI after Shubman Gill withdrew due to a neck spasm. The right-hander, who opened the innings, was dismissed for a golden duck in a rain-hit encounter. India, however, won by seven wickets and sealed the three-match series.