The 2022 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), slated to get underway on March 26, will be Riyan Parag’s fourth season in the T20 tournament.
During the IPL 2022 mega-auction last month, Rajasthan Royals (RR) bought back Riyan for INR 3.80 crore and he will continue to turn up for the same franchise.
The 20-year-old already has 30 IPL matches under his belt, and he is ready to make the opportunities count in the upcoming season.
"I started my IPL journey at the Royals, and I'm delighted that I was bought back. I know there were four teams involved in the bidding and it was nice to see that because that means I've been doing something right. But I was always rooting to come back here. Why this team means so much to me is because of the very family vibe, where everyone takes care of you, everyone is very friendly and approachable. It's just a very positive set-up which can help you develop and excel, and that is what I intend to do," said Riyan in an official statement.
The Assam all-rounder also reflected on his domestic season, saying it has been "average" for the standards he's set for himself.
"I recently played the Ranji Trophy, and even if I like missed a few 100s, I think I was in good nick and was batting well. In terms of bowling too, I got my first five-fer. So yes, there is still huge scope for improvement. The focus now is on prepping up for the IPL as I've played less white-ball cricket in the last month or so, but a few sessions of good practice should help in preparing," he said.
Riyan Parag is looking forward to work with veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the forthcoming IPL. Ashwin was roped in by RR for INR 5 crore ah the mega-auction.
"That will definitely be Ashwin. If not the best ever, he's like one of the best off-spinners going around in the world, and I'll definitely try to carry a red ball with me in the tournament so that I can get a few tips."
"But even with the white ball, I think if I can pick his brains on the varieties and all the mysteries, I think my white-ball bowling is going to be much better after the season," Riyan said.
(With ANI inputs)
