RUNS AND ROSES FOR RIYAN 2.0

After years of criticism and social media abuse, the youngster is now receiving praise for his new-found consistency and maturity. Indraneel Das takes a look at how it all happened...

- Indraneel Das

EXPECTATIONS can be great and grave. Sometimes it can be cruel too. The burden can be heavier than the Atlas on Hercules' shoulders. If it is met, the journey can be beautiful and cherishing. Rewarding too. Sporting world is replete with such stories. Riyan Parag's is one such journey but with a tinge of varied experience.

Hailing from a cricket-starstarved state like Assam, the expectations on Riyan is understandably enormous. As he waded into the national spotlight, focus on him intensified. There is talent, hunger and diligence all rolled into one. Runs have kept flowing from his blade. Domestic cricket has been his kingdom where he ruled like an emperor. Yet, this same form did not fetch him runs while batting for Rajasthan Royals. This season, however, the storyline is taking a different turn.

The 24 runs off Anrich Nortje in the last over in Jaipur's last match against Delhi Capitals showed the touch Riyan is in. He scored 84 off 45. In their first match, it was 43 off 29 balls. Matured beard has replaced his boyish looks. The brickbats (for earlier unimpressive performances) are slowly turning into accolades. Things will definitely change if he keeps his run-scoring spree going. "He has matured," are the words of his father Parag Das.