IPL 2022: Simon Doull clarifies his 'social media star' statement on Riyan Parag

Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull came under the scanner for his comments on cricketer Riyan Parag during one of Rajasthan Royals’ recent games in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Doull had called Parag a ‘social media star’ but stated that it doesn’t count on the field. However, the commentator has come out with a proper clarification on the statement and admitted that the comments didn’t come out in a right way.

Riyan Parag has been playing for the Royals for last few seasons now. But apart from a few matches, he hasn’t been able to stamp his authority at all. The Rajasthan franchise though continued to believe in his talent and secured his services for INR 3.8 crore in the mega auction.

Coming back to Simon Doull’s comments, one of the Twitter users pointed out that the former’s statements on Riyan Parag were uncalled for. “Simon Doull on-air questioning RR’s decision to play Riyan Parag who has modest record. I think that is a fair opinion. But then he concludes by saying that I know Riyan is a social media star but that doesn’t count in a match. Why would any commentator say that on national TV?

“Riyan Parag is someone who has already faced so much flak for his celebrations and social media presence and these comments on the official broadcast do nothing but further put his behaviour under the scanner. Whether Parag deserves his place in the side or not is beside the point. A commentator should focus on cricketing merits of a decision instead of commenting on someone’s lifestyle choices,” the fan tweeted.

Simon Doull on air questioning RR's decision to play Riyan Parag who has modest record,I think that is a fair opinion.

But then he concludes by saying that I know Riyan is a social media star but that doesn't count in a match.

Why would any commentator say that on national TV?

— Akash Kumar Jha (@Akashkumarjha14) April 5, 2022

Whether Parag deserves his place in the side or not is besides the point.

A commentator should focus on cricketing merits of a decision instead of commenting on someone's lifestyle choices.

— Akash Kumar Jha (@Akashkumarjha14) April 5, 2022

I think you missed the points, says Simon Doull

Simon Doull came across the criticism and duly came up with a prompt response to the fan. He stated that while Riyan Parag is indeed a social media star, his numbers with the bat and ball in the IPL are not so encouraging. However, Doull also apologized for not conveying his point in a proper way.

“I think you missed the point. The social media says to me he is popular and well liked but that doesn’t count when he is in the middle.. Runs and strike rate is his currency and IMO it’s not good enough. Maybe it’s lost in translation a little sorry.. Enjoy the game,” Doull replied.

I think you missed the point. The social media says to me he is popular and well liked but that doesn’t count when he is in the middle.. Runs and strike rate is his currency and IMO it’s not good enough. Maybe it’s lost in translation a little sorry.. 🙏🏽 Enjoy the game..

— Simon Doull (@Sdoull) April 5, 2022