'Tough to support someone like me' - Riyan Parag opens on dealing with criticism

Riyan Parag, the young batting all-rounder from Assam, has faced plenty of criticism and scrutiny in his IPL career so far with Rajasthan Royals. However, after being promoted to bat at No.4 in RR's opening match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Parag silenced some doubters with a fiery knock. He has now opened up about dealing with the negative noise around his performances.

At just 22 years old, Parag has already played 55 IPL matches, scoring 643 runs at 16.92. Despite shining in domestic cricket, he hasn't quite lived up to expectations in the IPL yet. Rajasthan though has persisted with him, showing faith in his ability. This year they have given him added responsibility, promoting him up the order.

Parag acknowledged he is a different character who does things his way. "It's tough to support someone like me. I am a different character, I do things a different way," Parag said in a video posted by IPL on its social media accounts.

Also read: Riyan Parag hopeful of IPL resurgence post brilliant domestic form

I couldn't care less to be honest: Riyan Parag

However, he doesn't let outside opinions affect his mentality. "I couldn't care less to be honest, if I think I am happy in my mind, if I think I've prepared well and given myself the best shot to go out there and perform, I am happy. It's tough but they've (RR) stood by me and hopefully I can repay them," he added.

Parag opened up and said that he doesn't get too distracted by the constant chatter and debates around his performances. "There are a lot of opinions about me, a lot of chat about me. But when I play domestic cricket, I don't listen to them. You indeed have a side ear to what everybody is saying but that's good and bad. You don't have to let that affect you. No matter who says what, If I don't truly believe in it, I don't think that matters," he concluded.

Also read: Riyan Parag will have a breakthrough IPL 2024 season: Irfan Pathan

Parag scored a brilliant 43 off 29, which included a four and three sixes. in the match against LSG. He played a crucial role in RR's opening match victory against KL Rahul led by 20 runs.