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'Got The Hunger Now' - Kumar Sangakkara Deciphers Factors Behind Riyan Parag’s Revival

Riyan Parag struck a blazing 43 vs LSG [AP]Riyan Parag struck a blazing 43 vs LSG [AP]

Rajasthan Royals (RR) Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara believes that the recent successes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel have served as inspiration for Riyan Parag, motivating him to strive for similar achievements. 

The Sri Lankan legend noted that Parag has shown remarkable growth both as a cricketer and an individual over the years.

Despite having played the IPL for five years, Parag has yet to firmly establish himself in the cash-rich league. With only two fifties and 643 runs in 55 matches, his IPL career has been somewhat underwhelming. 

However, his performances in domestic cricket have been noteworthy, prompting the Royals to retain him despite his inconsistent IPL form.

In the opening match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Parag was promoted up the batting order and seized the opportunity by scoring 43 runs off 29 deliveries. 

Speaking about Parag ahead of Royals' game against Delhi Capitals in Jaipur, Sangakkara said:

"The biggest thing we've seen in Riyan is maturity. Irrespective of the support we offer players and whatever coaches you have, self-awareness of what your game is, what is good for you, what your lifestyle should look like in terms of on-field, off-field, focus on performance - all of that has changed in Riyan. He has also seen the huge jump Jaiswal and now Jurel have made. He has got the hunger now and example to follow.”  

Despite struggling to fulfil the expectations in previous seasons, Rajasthan Royals have continued to invest in Parag's potential, recognising him as a valuable asset since his teenage years. 

In the 2022 IPL mega auction, they secured his services once again, indicating their continued belief in his abilities. This season, Parag looks set to repay the trust placed in him by delivering impactful performances with the bat and hopefully with the ball as well.